Hibernation site dimensions influence bat abundance and diversity in the boreal zone

Abstract

Hibernation is a critical phase in the annual cycle of boreal bats, especially near the northern limit of their range where winter conditions are severe and suitable hibernacula are limited. In Finland, anthropogenic structures, such as abandoned bunkers, commonly serve as hibernacula for bats. In this research, we investigate how the size characteristics of bunkers affect species composition and abundance of hibernating bats. The length of the bunker was the best predictor of the presence and abundance of bats. The longest sites ([~]25-26 m) had the highest probability to host all studied species, or group of species of bats, specifically Eptesicus nilssonii, Plecotus auritus, and Myotis bats. Eptesicus nilssonii appeared to be a generalist species, utilizing a variety of bunkers regardless of their length or temperature regime. Still, its number per bunker was relatively low. The highest numbers of Myotis bats were observed in the longest bunkers with stable temperature. The number of P. auritus was positively related to the bunker length; however, it was rare in the studied hibernacula. Different species showed different patterns in hibernacula space usage. Eptesicus nilssonii hibernated in any part of the bunker, while Myotis bats used the most remote from the entrances areas in small sites, and occupied the whole area of the longest bunkers.