Bats in Winter

1. Bats in Winter • Bats have several options for winter due to loss of insects. • Migrate South • Hibernate • Combination of both

2. Migration • The regular, seasonal movement of certain species • Bats, butterflies, birds, whales • Bats fly 100-1000 miles to their destination • Use vision and familiar landmarks (lakes/rivers) • Some travel in groups with birds

3. Obstacles During Migration • Radio towers • High rise buildings • Severe weather • Lack of food • Destruction/alteration of habitat

4. What is Hibernation? • An adaptation to conserve stored energy when supplies are otherwise low • An extended state of torpor • Temperature normally 100F degrees, drops to 32-50F • Breathing slows • Heart rate slows 1000 beats/minute to 20/minute

5. Hibernaculum • Can be found in caves, mines, rocky crevices, tree cavities, buildings • Need a constant temperature and humidity (78%) • Bats awaken periodically to drink, urinate, shift location every 12-19 days • Can go up to 83 days • Disturbing bats more often can use up valuable stored energy

6. PA Migrating Bats • Hoary • Silver haired • Red

7. PA Hibernating Bats • Little Brown • Big Brown • Small Footed

8. PA Hibernating Bats cont. • Indiana Bat • Long Eared Bat • Eastern Pipistrelle