What You Need to Know About Hibernating Bats In Truckee
Bats in Winter: What You Need to Know About Hibernating Bats In Truckee
As temperatures drop, many animals enter hibernation—including bats. Understanding bat hibernation can help homeowners address bat issues effectively without disturbing these protected animals. Here’s what you need to know about bats in winter and what to do if you find bats roosting in your home.
Where Do Bats Go in Winter?
During winter many of the species bats around Tahoe enter a state called torpor to conserve energy, significantly lowering their body temperature and metabolism. In California, bats may choose attics, caves, or other sheltered areas to hibernate, emerging occasionally on warmer nights. If they’ve found their way into your attic, they’re likely seeking a safe, warm spot to ride out the cold.
While there are not many migrating species around Truckee, colonies may change what house or general area the are roosting based on weather conditions. For example a colony may spend the summer in your house but find the entry point snowed over in the winter, and spend that time hiding behind a toasty fireplace
Why Hibernation Delays Removal Efforts
It’s not ideal to attempt full bat exclusion in winter. One-way doors, which allow bats to exit but not reenter, may need to remain until spring to avoid trapping bats inside. Disturbing bats in hibernation can also harm them, as waking up depletes their energy reserves, potentially leading to starvation. Parts of the project can be completed and prepped for completion when the snow melts. If you keep getting bats inside my home or you keep finding bats in your bedroom, we will work to protect human safety.
What You Should Do if You Find Winter Bats Indoors
If you see signs of bats in your home over the winter, avoid sealing entry points or attempting DIY removal. Instead:
Consult a Professional: Experienced bat control professionals can assess the situation and decide the best timing for exclusion efforts. They’ll likely recommend waiting until early spring to install one-way doors and seal entry points.
Minimize Disturbances: Try not to disturb bats in their roosting area. Avoid loud noises, bright lights, or entering areas where they might be nesting.
Preparing for Spring Bat Exclusion
Spring is an ideal time for bat exclusion, as bats become more active and are ready to leave their roosts. Scheduling bat-proofing and exclusion services before the breeding season helps ensure they won’t find their way back in. Exclusion involves sealing entry points around vents, rooflines, and eaves, keeping bats out for good.
Bats entering homes in winter can create challenges for removal. To respect their hibernation needs while protecting your home, consult a professional to plan a spring exclusion and make sure your attic is secure year-round. With the right approach, you can keep bats out without disturbing their natural winter behavior.
