Presentation Abstract

Student's Name: Ella Rogers'27

Co-registrant Names:

Type of Presentation: Poster Exhibit: One or more registrants displaying posters for discussion

Presentation Title: "The influence of decreased day length and temperature on fall emergence and foraging patterns of bats in New Hampshire"

Abstract:

Seasonal constraints suggest that trade-offs in emergence timing may shift during autumn, with earlier emergence potentially increasing energy intake while also elevating predation risk due to higher visibility. Anecdotal observations indicate that some bats may emerge earlier relative to sunset during late fall, possibly reflecting an adaptive response to declining prey availability. For individuals requiring additional fat stores, the energetic benefits of earlier emergence may outweigh the costs associated with increased detectability. This study examined patterns of bat emergence timing and foraging activity during the fall season in a temperate forest system. We evaluated whether emergence time shifted earlier relative to sunset as fall progressed and nighttime temperatures declined. We predicted a seasonal advance in emergence timing corresponding with decreasing temperatures and reduced insect activity. Surveys took place at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Surry Mountain Lake (SML) facility located in southwest NH (Cheshire Co., Surry Township). Eight acoustic detectors were deployed at the SML from 15 September through 30 November 2025. Detectors were operational nightly from 30 min prior to sunset until 30 min after sunrise. Acoustic data of bats emergence timing relative to sunset time and temperature are currently being analyzed.

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