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Wildlife of Tennessee · Bats

Indiana Bat in Tennessee

A federally protected species, so report any roost to TWRA or USFWS. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

Call us today615-357-7797
An Indiana bat clinging to the underside of loose tree bark in a Tennessee forest, macro wildlife photo, soft light.

At a Glance

About the Indiana Bat

Bats are valuable insect eaters, and several Tennessee species are protected. They can still end up in attics and walls, so removal has to be humane and timed to protect the pups.

Protected Species

Risk: A federally protected species, so report any roost to TWRA or USFWS.

Call 615-357-7797

Scientific nameMyotis sodalis
Size9 to 11 inch wingspan
Where it shows upWooded areas, loose tree bark and caves
When it is activeDusk to dawn, with a protected maternity season

Signs You Have One

How to Tell

These are the clues that point to a indiana bat.

  • Roosts under loose bark on dead trees in summer
  • Tight winter clusters in caves
  • A rare bat that does not usually enter homes

A Protected Species

What We Do About the Indiana Bat

This animal is protected by state or federal law, so we do not harm it. We inspect, advise and, where the law allows, use exclusion with the right timing. If you are unsure, call us before you do anything.

Prevention

Keep Them Away

Simple steps that help for this kind of animal.

  • Look for bats leaving at dusk
  • Never block an opening before the bats are out
  • Avoid exclusion in the pup season (about mid-May to July)
  • Seal every gap after the bats leave

Similar Animals

More Bats

Free Tool

What Animal Is It? Identifier

Pick where it is, when you notice it and the signs you see, and get a ranked list of the likely Tennessee animals.

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Good to Know

Questions About Indiana Bat

Still have a question?

Call 615-357-7797

How do I know if I have a indiana bat?

Common signs: roosts under loose bark on dead trees in summer; tight winter clusters in caves; a rare bat that does not usually enter homes.

Is a indiana bat dangerous?

A federally protected species, so report any roost to TWRA or USFWS. When in doubt, keep your distance and call us.

What does Music City Wildlife do about a indiana bat?

This animal is protected by state or federal law, so we do not harm it. We inspect, advise and, where the law allows, use exclusion with the right timing. If you are unsure, call us before you do anything. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

Free Estimate

Tell Us What Is Going On

Describe what you see, hear or smell and we will get back to you quickly with a plan and a free estimate. For an animal in the house or any emergency, skip the form and call 615-357-7797 any hour.

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