What is a bat's nest called? - briefly
«Roost» is the term for the shelter where bats gather to sleep, breed, or hibernate, encompassing caves, tree cavities, or man‑made structures. The word applies to any location used by bats as a temporary or permanent dwelling.
What is a bat's nest called? - in detail
Bats occupy a structure commonly referred to as a «roost». The designation applies to any site used for resting, breeding, or hibernating, and it encompasses several specific categories.
A roost may be natural or artificial. Natural sites include caves, abandoned mines, tree cavities, bark crevices, foliage clusters, and rock overhangs. Artificial locations comprise bat boxes, attic spaces, bridge under‑structures, and purpose‑built conservation shelters. Each option offers varying microclimates, humidity levels, and predator protection.
The principal subtypes of roosts are:
- Day roost – used for short‑term rest during daylight hours; typically located in trees or building eaves.
- Maternity roost – selected by females for raising offspring; characterized by stable temperature, high humidity, and limited disturbance.
- Hibernaculum – winter shelter where bats enter torpor; usually deep caves or mines with constant low temperatures.
- Night roost – temporary refuge after foraging; may be the same site as a day roost or a distinct perch.
Selection criteria involve ambient temperature, humidity, predator access, and proximity to foraging grounds. Species‑specific preferences dictate which roost type is optimal; for instance, Myotis spp. favor narrow crevices, whereas Pteropus spp. occupy large tree canopies.
Understanding the terminology and functional distinctions of roosts supports accurate monitoring, habitat management, and targeted conservation measures.