Sleeping Habits of Bats

More than 1,100 species of bats exist around the world. These mammals are extremely diverse in size and appearance, and they have been around since the dinosaur age. Much folklore and misinformation is circulated about the predators, which feed on pesky insects and plant nectar. However, their function and habits are continually being studied by conservationists and scholars who recognize the value and allure of these elusive animals.

  1. Schedule

    • Bats typically hunt and feed at night; they're nocturnal creatures and prefer to spend their days resting in seclusion. They're especially good at hiding in tucked-away areas while they sleep. Much of the secrecy surrounding bats and their habits is due to their unique ability to stay out of sight. Their most active moments occur overnight, so they're rarely spotted in action. Bats break for rest frequently between feedings.

    Environment

    • Some bats settle down in household attics, outdoor barns, mines and dark caves. Such areas keep bats safe from their predators while protecting them from extreme weather changes and giving them privacy to take care of their offspring. Other bat species choose to sleep in hollowed-out trees and crevices in rocks. The occasional bat can be spotted in exposed locations like tree trunks and dangling from sturdy tree branches. In areas with freezing climates, bats prefer to hibernate in hidden, humid locations. They may even migrate to other areas for additional food and warmth.

    Rituals

    • Bats are energetic creatures. They appreciate their private areas and opportunities for secluded sleep and rest whenever necessary, but they actively quarrel, groom themselves and fly around in their caves before emerging in the darkness of the night to find food. Bats famously hang upside down as they sleep, but they remain segregated by sex while they roost. New mothers leave their babies behind in the shelter overnight, returning frequently to feed them.

    Misconceptions

    • Due to their popularity in spooky tales and prevalence during Halloween celebrations, bats have been the subject of much gossip and libel. A very small percentage of bats are vampires. Those who feed on mammal blood prefer to gather their supply from felines. They lap blood up like milk instead of sucking it from the source. Bats are discreet and generally stay out of the way of humans; they are not to be feared. Bats control insect populations and are of great use to the Earth's ecosystem.