However, severe habitat loss in the South Okanagan has probably further limited their numbers. Colonial species are sensitive to human disturbance. Any human activity that disturbs the bats in their night roost, day roosts, or foraging grounds, could potentially cause Pallid Bats to move out of the area including logging, industrial activity, hiking and rock climbing. Habitat loss from conversion of sagebrush steppe habitat to other uses such as housing developments and golf courses appear to be on the increase in the Okanagan. The reduction of open foraging areas because of development as well as grazing by cattle may degrade foraging areas reducing prey diversity and density.
Roost sites are generally secure because of inaccessibility however.
Pesticides are used extensively in Okanagan fruit orchards and potentially have detrimental effects on the Pallid Bat populations. Because of the climate in British Columbia, Pallid Bats may suffer more from ingesting pesticides than Pallid Bats farther south. Pesticides are stored in the fatty tissues and are released when the fat is metabolized. The effect of ingested pesticides is probably worst during severe cold because more fat reserves are used during hibernation and migration. In addition, pesticides and herbicides may limit the prey supply, but it is not known how this would affect the abundance of the Pallid Bat.