Little Brown Bat
The Little Brown Bat, Myotis lucifugus, dazzles with its nocturnal aerial acrobatics, adeptly snatching insects mid-flight. This agile bat plays a vital role in pest control, showcasing its echolocation prowess in diverse habitats from forests to cities. Its presence is a testament to the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
Length: 22 - 27 cm; Height: 5 - 10 cm
Size
Red, Gold, Dark, Brown, Olive
Color
1 year
Age of Sexual Maturity
21-28 days
Age of Weaning
Endangered
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
The Myotis lucifugus, commonly known as the Little Brown Bat, is a small insectivorous mammal with a wingspan of 8.5-11 inches. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including forests and urban areas, and is known for its agile flight and echolocation abilities used to hunt insects at night.
Distribution Range of the Little Brown Bat
Myotis lucifugus, commonly known as the Little Brown Bat, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution covers a wide range, including most of the United States and Canada. It can be found from the southern parts of Alaska, across Canada, and throughout the continental United States, extending as far south as northern Mexico. The species is notably absent from the southeastern United States and parts of the southern Great Plains.
Little Brown Bat's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Little Brown Bat typically inhabits areas with water sources such as lakes, rivers, and streams, which support abundant insect populations, their primary food source. They are adaptable to various climates, from temperate to boreal regions, and show a preference for forested areas that provide roosting sites.
Ecological Niche
Myotis lucifugus occupies an ecological niche as an insectivorous predator, feeding on a variety of night-flying insects, including mosquitoes, moths, and beetles. They are crucial for controlling insect populations. They roost in a variety of structures, such as tree hollows, caves, and buildings. In winter, they hibernate in caves or mines, where stable temperatures and humidity levels are essential for their survival.
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