If Mother Nature didn't put it there, it doesn't belong in the cave. Don't stop under groups of sleeping bats. Temperature swings of only a few degrees can rouse them, even from hibernation. Waking a bat unnecessarily can prevent them from living through the winter. Normal hibernation season is around Nov. 1 through May 1, though some start sooner and end later.
Local conditions have a lot to do with their cycle.
Please don't disturb it. Only a few bats carry rabies, but if you're bitten, you probably won't catch the offender, and rabies shots are painful. Eat and drink plenty of food and water. Caving is an energetic pursuit, and spirits flag when the stomach grumbles. Eat a snack and drink some water when you stop to rest, but keep rest stops short to avoid chilling.