Bats of the United States and Canada

California Bat, Myotis californicus

156 bats of the united states and canada CALIFORNIA BAT (California Myotis) Myotis californicus Weight is 3–5 grams (0.1–0.2 ounce); wingspan is 22–23 centimeters (9 inches); distribution is from southern Alaska and western Canada southward through most of Mexico. It is one of the smallest bats in the United States. It occupies a variety of habitats in the Pacific Northwest and southern and western British Columbia, from the humid coastal forest to semidesert, and from sea level to about 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) elevation. In arid regions, it usually occurs in the vicinity of water. Individuals emerge shortly after sunset to forage, which continues at irregular intervals until dawn. Its flight is slow and erratic, and it hunts primarily along margins of tree clumps, around the edge of the tree canopy, over water, and well above the ground in open country. California bats roost in rock crevices, hollow trees, spaces under loose bark, and in buildings. The sexes roost separately during summer, when females form small maternity colonies, but occur together during September to March. They hibernate in caves and mines. The California bat feeds on small flying insects, primarily flies, moths, and beetles. Its foraging strategy consists of locating concentrations of insects where its slow maneuverable flight allows it to capture several insects in quick succession over a short distance. Breeding takes place in autumn and one baby is born in July. Lifespan is about 15 years. The California bat is common throughout its range. recto runninghead 157 ...