Northern Long-eared Bat

Scientific Name: Myotis septentrionalis

Weight: 6-7 grams

Wingspan: 22-26 centimeters

Distribution: Southern Canada and the eastern United States southward to northern Florida.

Ecology and Behavior: Northern long-eared bats hibernate in parts of caves and mines that are relatively cool, moist, and where the air is still. Hibernation may begin as early as August and may last for eight or nine months in northern latitudes. In summer, they roost by day in a variety of shelters, including buildings and under tree bark or shutters, but at night they commonly use caves as roosts. Except for small maternity colonies, they usually roost singly. Although they frequently hang out in the open, they seem to prefer tight crevices and holes. Sometimes only the nose and ears are visible, but they can be distinguished from other species of Myotis by their long ears.

Reproduction: Presumably most mating occurs in autumn prior to hibernation. Apparently small nursery colonies are formed in June and July where pregnant females give birth to one young. Mothers may be able to retrieve their young that fall down from the roost sites. The lifespan is thought to exceed 18 years.

Status of Populations: Endangered. Once common in specific parts of its range, this species has been decimated by white-nose syndrome and is now one of the rarest bats in Tennessee.