Roost selection by bats in buildings, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Bats in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are more likely to roost in old, dark buildings with low surrounding road density. This finding, derived from a two-year survey of 140 structures, identified 5 bat species and 48 roost sites, providing critical insights for wildlife management. Researchers used an information-theoretic approach to compare microclimate conditions, building features, and habitat characteristics between occupied and unoccupied buildings. Notably, 65.9% of roosting buildings were tourist-accessible, and 68.2% were historical structures, posing challenges for conservation while maintaining human safety and preserving heritage sites. The study offers alternative management strategies to balance bat protection with structural integrity during the reproductive period.

Fagan, K. E., Willcox, E. V., Tran, L. T., Bernard, R. F., & Stiver, W. H. (2017). Roost selection by bats in buildings, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 82(2), 424–434. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/jwmg.21372