Bats and Bridges brochure
Olson, C. & Holroyd, S.
Abstract
This brochure provides a practical field guide for bridge managers and biologists to recognize and manage bat use of bridges in western Canada. It explains how bats use bridges as night roosts, day roosts, and maternity roosts, and highlights key indicators of bat presence, including guano, audible vocalizations, and roosting in or on crevices, beams, and expansion joints.
The guide emphasizes legal protections for bats and offers timing and management considerations to avoid harm during bridge maintenance or replacement. Information is based on work conducted by WCS Canada and partners from 2021–2025 across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories.
Recommended citation
Olson, C. & Holroyd, S. (2026). Bats and Bridges brochure. Wildlife Conservation Society Canada [WCS Canada]. https://wcscanada.org/resources/bats-and-bridges-brochure/
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Metadata
- Title
- Bats and Bridges brochure
- URL
- https://wcscanada.org/resources/bats-and-bridges-brochure/
- Published
- 2026-02-20
- Author(s)
- Olson, C. & Holroyd, S.
- Publisher
- Wildlife Conservation Society Canada [WCS Canada]
Bats
Bats are the world’s only flying mammal.
Western Bats
WCS Canada's Western Bat Program is committed to protecting bats and bat habitats in Western North America.
How you can help bats
Take part in citizen science, and learn more about bats
