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Indiana Bat
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Scientific name:
Myotis sodalis.
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Weight: 7-8
grams.
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Wingspan:
24-27 centimeters.
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Distribution:
Cave regions in the eastern United States.
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Ecology and
Behavior: Indiana bats usually hibernate in large dense clusters of
up to several thousand individuals in sections of the hibernation cave
where temperatures average (38-43* F) and with relative humidities of
66-95%. They hibernate from October to April, depending on climate
conditions. Females depart hibernation caves before males and arrive at
maternity roosts in mid-May. The summer roost of adult males often is
near the maternity roosts, but where most spend the day is unknown.
Others remain near the hibernaculum, and a few males are found in caves
during summer. Between early August and mid-September, Indiana bats
arrive near their hibernation caves and engaging in swarming and mating
activity. Swarming at cave entrances continues into mid or late October.
During this time, fat reserves are built up for hibernation.
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Food Habits:
When pregnant, females eat soft-bodied insects: they eat moths when
lactating, and moths, beetles, and hard bodied insects after lactation.
Males also eat a variety of insects.
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Reproduction:
One young id born in June is raised under loose tree bark, primarily in
wooded streamside habitat. Lifespan of nearly 14 years have been
documented.
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Status of
Populations: Endangered. Present total population is fewer than
400,000, with more than 85% hibernating in only seven locations making
them extremely vulnerable to destruction. Populations continue to
decrease.
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