Local scientists are studying the longevity of bats who use bridges and other aboveground hibernacula [ˌhaɪbərˈnækjələ] versus that of bats who roost all winter in subterranean caves.

hibernaculum [ˌhaɪbərˈnækjələm]
noun

Hibernaculum (plural hibernacula [ˌhaɪbərˈnækjələ]) refers to a shelter occupied during the winter by a dormant animal, such as an insect, snake, bat, or marmot.

from the Latin verb hibernare, meaning “to pass the winter,” which in turn comes from hibernus, meaning “winter.”

English