6 Types of Bats in Indiana
Yes, Indiana is home to 13 species of bats, including the federally endangered Indiana bat. These nocturnal mammals are essential for controlling insect populations across the state's farms and forests. This guide covers the common kinds of bats you will encounter from the dunes of the north to the caves of the south.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 8
- species recorded
- August, June, April
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
6 types of bats recorded in Indiana
6 bat species have a verified observation record in Indiana across bats (order Chiroptera), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Plus 6 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
576 verified observations on iNaturalist of bat have been recorded in Indiana, most often in August, June, April.
When bat are recorded in Indiana
Yes, Indiana is home to 13 species of bats, including the federally endangered Indiana bat. These nocturnal mammals are essential for controlling insect populations across the state's farms and forests. This guide covers the common kinds of bats you will encounter from the dunes of the north to the caves of the south.
What are the most common bat species in Indiana?
The big brown bat is the most frequently encountered species, often roosting in buildings and residential areas. The little brown myotis is also common, although its population has been affected by disease. Other species include the red bat and the silver-haired bat, which are often seen during their seasonal migrations.
Where are the best places for bat watching in Indiana?
The southern part of Indiana is famous for its karst landscape and numerous caves. Wyandotte Cave and Blue Spring Caverns are excellent places to learn about bat habitats. State parks like Brown County and McCormick's Creek also offer great opportunities to see bats foraging over water at dusk. Check ourIndiana wildlife guidefor more locations.
How can you identify the endangered Indiana bat?
The Indiana bat is very similar in appearance to the little brown myotis. It is a small bat with gray-brown fur and a pinkish nose. The most reliable way to identify them is by their keel-like structure on their feet and their specific roosting habits in large colonies. Because they are endangered, they should never be disturbed. For more identification tips, see ourbat identification guide.
What is the importance of bats to Indiana's agriculture?
Bats are invaluable to Indiana's farmers, providing millions of dollars in natural pest control every year. They consume massive quantities of insects that damage crops like corn and soybeans. By reducing the need for chemical pesticides, bats support a healthier and more sustainable agricultural industry across the state.
Bat-themed gifts for nature lovers
If you appreciate the role bats play in Indiana's environment, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Bat House for Indiana Backyards []() A high-quality wooden bat house designed to provide a safe roost for local species. A great way to encourage natural pest control in your yard. Check Price and Availability
When do bats hibernate in Indiana?
Indiana's bats typically begin hibernating in late October or November as temperatures drop and insects become scarce. Many species migrate to caves in the southern part of the state for the winter. They remain dormant until the spring thaw in late March or April when they emerge to begin foraging again.
Are bats in Indiana affected by white-nose syndrome?
Yes, white-nose syndrome has significantly impacted bat populations in Indiana. This fungal disease affects hibernating bats and has caused high mortality in several species, including the Indiana bat. The state's Department of Natural Resources monitors colonies and works to protect critical wintering sites to help populations recover.
What should I do if I find a bat in my Indiana home?
If a bat enters your home, try to stay calm and confine it to one room. Open a window or door to let it escape on its own. If it does not leave, contact a local wildlife professional for assistance. Never handle a bat with your bare hands, as they can bite if they feel threatened or handled.
Can I attract bats to my Indiana yard?
Yes, installing a bat house and providing a small water source are the best ways to attract bats. Avoid using pesticides in your garden to ensure they have plenty of insects to eat. Planting native flowers that attract night-flying insects can also help create a healthy foraging environment for local bats.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common bat species in Indiana?+
The big brown bat is the most frequently encountered species, often roosting in buildings and residential areas. The little brown myotis is also common, although its population has been affected by disease. Other species include the red bat and the silver-haired bat, which are often seen during their seasonal migrations.
Where are the best places for bat watching in Indiana?+
The southern part of Indiana is famous for its karst landscape and numerous caves. Wyandotte Cave and Blue Spring Caverns are excellent places to learn about bat habitats. State parks like Brown County and McCormick's Creek also offer great opportunities to see bats foraging over water at dusk. Check ourIndiana wildlife guidefor more locations.
How can you identify the endangered Indiana bat?+
The Indiana bat is very similar in appearance to the little brown myotis. It is a small bat with gray-brown fur and a pinkish nose. The most reliable way to identify them is by their keel-like structure on their feet and their specific roosting habits in large colonies. Because they are endangered, they should never be disturbed. For more identification tips, see ourbat identification guide.
What is the importance of bats to Indiana's agriculture?+
Bats are invaluable to Indiana's farmers, providing millions of dollars in natural pest control every year. They consume massive quantities of insects that damage crops like corn and soybeans. By reducing the need for chemical pesticides, bats support a healthier and more sustainable agricultural industry across the state.
When do bats hibernate in Indiana?+
Indiana's bats typically begin hibernating in late October or November as temperatures drop and insects become scarce. Many species migrate to caves in the southern part of the state for the winter. They remain dormant until the spring thaw in late March or April when they emerge to begin foraging again.
Are bats in Indiana affected by white-nose syndrome?+
Yes, white-nose syndrome has significantly impacted bat populations in Indiana. This fungal disease affects hibernating bats and has caused high mortality in several species, including the Indiana bat. The state's Department of Natural Resources monitors colonies and works to protect critical wintering sites to help populations recover.
What should I do if I find a bat in my Indiana home?+
If a bat enters your home, try to stay calm and confine it to one room. Open a window or door to let it escape on its own. If it does not leave, contact a local wildlife professional for assistance. Never handle a bat with your bare hands, as they can bite if they feel threatened or handled.
Can I attract bats to my Indiana yard?+
Yes, installing a bat house and providing a small water source are the best ways to attract bats. Avoid using pesticides in your garden to ensure they have plenty of insects to eat. Planting native flowers that attract night-flying insects can also help create a healthy foraging environment for local bats.
Keep exploring
More places to see bat