Outdoor seating in urban environments has become a hallmark of modern city life, offering social and economic benefits. However, its impact on local wildlife, particularly bats, is often overlooked. Bats, as nocturnal creatures, rely on dark, quiet spaces to forage and navigate. The proliferation of outdoor seating—especially in areas with bright lighting and noise—can disrupt their natural behaviors.

Artificial light from cafes and restaurants interferes with bats' echolocation, making it harder for them to hunt insects. Noise pollution from crowded patios may also drive bats away from their traditional roosting sites. Additionally, outdoor seating often replaces green spaces, reducing the availability of insects, a primary food source for bats.

To mitigate these effects, cities can adopt bat-friendly lighting (e.g., amber LEDs) and designate quieter zones near known roosts. Preserving green corridors and limiting late-night noise can help maintain urban bat populations. By balancing urban development with wildlife conservation, we can ensure that both humans and bats thrive in shared spaces.