Bats in South Carolina

There are 15 species of bats native to South Carolina. The Big Brown Bat is the most common, which often makes it home in people’s houses while roosting.

The largest bat in South Carolina is the Hoary Bat, while the smallest bat in the state is the Tricolored Bat.

Different Types of Bats in South Carolina

Free-tailed Bats (Molossidae)

Mexican Free-tailed Bat

Vesper Bats (Vespertilionidae)

Big Brown Bat
Eastern Red Bat
Eastern Small-footed Myotis
Evening Bat
Hoary Bat
Indiana Bat
Little Brown Bat
Northern Long-eared Bat
Northern Yellow Bat
Rafinesque’s Big-eared Bat
Seminole Bat
Silver-haired Bat
Southeastern Myotis
Tricolored Bat

Places To Go Bat Watching in South Carolina

South Carolina has several caves and woods from which enthusiasts can observe bats getting ready to leave to hunt from dusk onwards.

FAQ

1. Are bats protected in South Carolina?

Yes, all South Carolina bat species are protected on public property, such as those under State and Federal resource agencies like heritage preserves, national forests, and state wildlife management areas.

2. Do bats hibernate in South Carolina?

Around half of South Carolina’s bats are known to hibernate when it gets colder. The locations may vary but generally include caves, mines, and tunnels.

3. Do bats migrate in South Carolina?

This is what the other half does to avoid winter in South Carolina. This generally includes bats that live in trees, like the Eastern Red Bat.

4. Are any of the bats living in South Carolina endangered?

The Rafinesque’s Big-eared Bat is listed as endangered in South Carolina. Also, the Eastern Small-footed Myotis is “in need of management,” which is an equivalent or close to status to being endangered.