Rafinesque's Big-eared Bat

Scientific Name: Corynorhinus rafinesquii

Weight: 8-14 grams

Wingspan: 26-30centimeters

Distribution: Southeastern United States

Ecology and Behavior: The least known of all the bats in the eastern United States. In the northern part of its range, it hibernates in caves, mines and similar habitats including cisterns and wells. In contrast, Rafinesque’s big- eared bats usually are not found in caves during winter in the more southern parts of their range. Maternity colonies are found more rarely in caves and mines. Males generally are solitary during summer, roosting in buildings or hollow trees. When approached in summer, these bats are immediately alerted and begin to wave their ears, apparently trying to keep track of the intruder. This species and the tri-colored bat choose more open and lighted day roosts than other kinds of bats. Both species commonly hang in the open in plain sight. Rafinesque’s big-eared bats emerge late in the evening to forage; apparently it does not forage at twilight. Its flight is remarkably agile.

Food Habits: Probably eats moths and other night flying insects.

Reproduction: Mating probably occurs in autumn and winter. One young is born in late May or early June in the northern part of their range and about mid- May in the South. The young shed their milk teeth in mid-July and reach adult size by August or early September.

Status of Populations: Uncommon over most of its range.