Bats are present in Kansas, inhabiting diverse environments from urban areas to woodlands and farmlands. These nocturnal mammals are a natural part of the state’s ecosystem. They are primarily insectivorous, playing a role in controlling insect populations. Their activity largely occurs after dusk, with most species relying on echolocation for navigation and hunting.
Types of Bats in Kansas
Kansas is home to about 15 bat species, some of which are common across the state. The Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus) is one of the most widespread species in Kansas, recognizable by its 12 to 16-inch wingspan and a weight of around half an ounce. This bat is a year-round resident and often found hibernating in buildings during colder months.
Another common species is the Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus), which is smaller with a wingspan of about 9 to 11 inches. These bats are agile insect hunters and often migrate for winter, though some may hibernate in buildings. The Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus) is one of the largest bats in Kansas, featuring a distinctive frosted white and gray fur, and a wingspan up to 16 inches. Hoary bats are solitary and typically roost in trees.
The Tri-colored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus), also known as the Eastern Pipistrelle, is the smallest bat in Kansas, characterized by its unique fur with three color bands on each hair. This species often roosts in caves and is experiencing population declines due to white-nose syndrome. The Evening Bat (Nycticeius humeralis) is another migratory species found in the eastern two-thirds of Kansas during warmer months.
Natural Habitats and Roosts
Bats in Kansas utilize a range of natural and human-made structures for roosting throughout the year. Natural habitats include caves, rock crevices, and hollows within trees or under loose tree bark. These locations provide shelter and protection from predators and the elements.
Beyond natural settings, bats have adapted to roost in human-made structures. Attics, old buildings, bridges, and even soffits or wall voids can serve as roosting sites for various species. Maternity colonies, where female bats raise their young, are often found in these sheltered locations.
Coexisting with Kansas Bats
Bats provide significant ecological benefits, primarily through insect control. They are insectivorous, consuming large quantities of insects, including agricultural pests and mosquitoes. A single bat can consume thousands of insects in one night, which can reduce the need for chemical pesticides in agricultural areas.
If a bat is found inside a home, it is advisable to avoid direct contact and wear thick leather gloves if handling becomes necessary. If the bat is flying, opening windows and doors to the outside may encourage it to leave. If contact with a bat occurs, especially if a bite is suspected, contact the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Epidemiology Hotline or local health department for rabies testing assessment.
While rabies in bats is a concern, human cases are rare, and skunks are a more common source of rabies in Kansas. Bats are protected by Kansas law, making it illegal to kill them unless there is a direct threat to human health or safety. Exclusion, which involves installing one-way devices to allow bats to exit but not re-enter, is a common method for removing bats from structures.