Use of Ultrasonic Acoustic Technology for Temporary Deterrence of Bats from Bridges

Abstract

White-Nose Syndrome and increased disturbance of habitats used by bats for roosting and foraging has led to a growing concern about the bat population in the US in the last decade. Bridge repair and replacement projects are required to follow additional regulatory requirements to avoid and minimize impacts to bats when protected bat species are present on bridges. Some of these requirements (e.g., timing restrictions) are challenging to implement, given Minnesota’s short construction season. The objective of this project was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of deploying non-lethal ultrasonic acoustic devices in the field to temporarily deter bats from roosting on bridges ahead of construction or maintenance activities, while minimizing harm to bats and non-target species. The technology was evaluated at two test sites located in Minnesota, one short term and one long term, during the summer of 2019. The data from the field inspections indicate that acoustic deterrents appear to effectively work to temporarily deter bats from select abutments and present an option to temporarily deter bats at construction sites. This technology could be implemented by any transportation agency, but would require the development of an agency protocol, through collaboration of relevant offices.

Wildlife Use of Anthropogenic Structures: A Comprehensive Review of Bridge Use by Bats

“…While bridges have great potential for serving as alternative roosts, road and bridge development can lead to habitat extirpation or act as an ecological sink for bats (Kristan, 2003; Battin, 2004; Russo and Ancillotto, 2015; Bektaş et al ., 2021). Tilova et al .…”

“…While bridges have great potential for serving as alternative roosts, road and bridge development can lead to habitat extirpation or act as an ecological sink for bats (Kristan, 2003;Battin, 2004;Russo and Ancillotto, 2015;Bektaş et al, 2021). Tilova et al (2008) conducted a project which aimed to rescue a wintering colony of noctule bats from a bridge that was being repaired.…”