South Carolina Studies Bat Use of Man-Made Structures

Researchers investigate how local infrastructure supports bat populations as natural cave habitats remain scarce.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Environmental

A weathered concrete culvert entrance set within a lush, moss-covered forested ravine in the South Carolina piedmont. — South Carolina biologists are evaluating how bats adapt to using tunnels and culverts as alternative roosting sites in the absence of natural caves. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should the state invest in protecting bat habitats within public infrastructure like bridges and culverts?

The South Carolina Department of Transportation and the Department of Natural Resources are conducting joint research to evaluate how bats utilize man-made structures for roosting. The study aims to determine if tunnels and culverts provide essential sanctuaries or facilitate the spread of disease.

Why it matters

Because South Carolina lacks natural caves, bats are forced to rely on human-built infrastructure. This research is critical to understanding how these structures affect the survival of species like the tricolored bat, which is proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act.

Researchers actively survey tunnels, culverts, and underpasses to identify roosts by looking for dark oil staining on surfaces. This field data grounds the investigation into whether these sites act as habitats or reservoirs for fatal fungal diseases.

The players

South Carolina Department of Transportation

This state agency manages the infrastructure and public road systems where the bat roosting study is currently taking place.

Department of Natural Resources

This department oversees the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats throughout the state of South Carolina.

The details

Biologists are assessing if these man-made environments prevent or encourage the spread of White-nose Syndrome, a fatal fungus that triggers premature awakening during hibernation. The team must balance these conservation efforts with public health concerns regarding rabies risks associated with bat exposure.

Bat Week occurs at the end of October.

The Big Picture

The study provides essential biological data to inform potential protections for the tricolored bat under the Endangered Species Act. By analyzing roosting habits in non-natural environments, researchers are helping to define the scope of habitat requirements for species at risk of federal listing.

The identification of bat roosts in tunnels and culverts may lead to localized safety advisories regarding rabies and human-bat interactions. These findings help the state manage public infrastructure while simultaneously protecting vulnerable wildlife populations from fatal diseases.

The takeaway

Understanding how local infrastructure serves as a substitute for natural caves is vital for bat conservation in the region. Residents should be aware that man-made structures may contain protected species and should prioritize safety to avoid direct contact.