Where Do Bats Live

Bats are the only mammals that are capable of sustained flight. But where do bats live? This post will answer that question, and also tell you a few interesting things about bats.

Where do bats live?

Bats live in every continent in the world, except Antarctica. They prefer to live in climates that are warm. Most bats live in forests. They like to hang from trees in the forest. Some species of bats like living in dark places, such as caves and attics.

Interesting things about bats

• Bats are nocturnal animals. They sleep through the day and look for food at night.
• Most species of bat (about 70%) are insectivores, which means they feed mainly on insects. One bat species, the Greater Noctule bat, is believed to catch and eat small birds while flying!
• While bats are sometimes called ‘flying rodents’, ‘flying rats’ or even insects, they are actually mammals.
• Bats have an excellent sense of smell.
• In the wild, bats can live for over 20 years.
• Some bats have the ability to hibernate. When winter hits, the bats hibernate for about six months. Other bats migrate to warmer climates during the winter.
• In the United Kingdom, it is illegal to handle a bat without a license due to the risk of contracting rabies and other diseases bats may carry.