Content Updated: August 27, 2026

Key takeaways:

  • Bats can hang upside down without using muscle energy because specialized tendons keep their toes and claws locked in place.

  • Hanging upside down puts bats in a better position for flight because most bats cannot take off directly from the ground and instead need to drop two to three feet.

  • Bats are nocturnal and typically spend the daytime sleeping, grooming, and interacting with other bats.

  • Some bat species can hibernate for five to six months while remaining upside down.

  • Bats typically sleep in sheltered areas such as tree hollows and caves but may also be found in chimneys, attics, abandoned mines, and sheds.

Bats sleep upside down because it’s a comfortable, energy-efficient position that also helps them take flight quickly. Their specialized tendons allow them to hang by their claws without using muscle energy, while their elevated position lets them drop into flight when needed. Learn more about why bats sleep upside down, how long they sleep, and where they typically take shelter.

How Long Do Bats Sleep?

Bats are nocturnal, which means they are active during the night and less active during the day. Bats become active around sunset and leave their roosts to hunt for food. During the daytime, bats typically spend time hanging upside down sleeping, grooming and interacting with other bats.

Bats can remain upside down for long periods of time, including during hibernation periods and even after death. Some bat species can hibernate between five to six months and survive on a small amount of stored body fat.

Where Do Bats Sleep?

Bats sleep and hang out in roosts (e.g., tree hollows or caves) that provide shelter and protection from predators and weather. They are social animals, living in colonies that can consist of 100 to several thousand bats. However, as cities expand into the natural habitats of bats, these animals have adapted to seek shelter inside buildings, attics, abandoned mines and sheds. It isn’t uncommon to find bats in chimneys and attics where they can remain out of sight.

To avoid any unwanted visitors, it is important to bat-proof your house to prevent them from entering your home. You can start by sealing any gaps, cracks, or crevices and repairing broken windows or screens. Remember, bats can squeeze into spaces as small as 1/2 inch. If you need help keeping bats out or removing any bats that have already made their way in, consider consulting a professional pest control technician for help. Trying to remove bats yourself is never recommended. Most bat species are federally protected and there are state regulations regarding when preventative and exclusion methods can be used. Protect your home and family by contacting Terminix ® today to schedule a free inspection.

 

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