Over the past 100 years, displaced bats have moved into abandoned mines. Closure of mines without first checking for bats could dramatically reduce their numbers, needlessly endangering the species. If a survey reveals bat use of a mine, there are alternatives to total closure that provide for public safety and allow bats to continue using the site. Often the most effective solution is a steel grate placed over or across the entrance, which typically includes a small, lockable gate used for official activities. The entire structure is commonly referred to as a bat gate.
Many bat species respond well to such structures.
Bat gates must meet the land manager's objective of protecting the public from a hazardous situation, while ensuring safe access to bats.