What Do Bat Droppings Look Like and How Dangerous are They?

Posted on November 28, 2022 by virginia

There are all sorts of things in this world that we don’t know about, and bat droppings are one of them. Most people have never seen bat droppings and, until now, you probably weren’t even aware that they existed. But believe it or not, bats do indeed produce droppings, and as it turns out, they can be pretty dangerous.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about bat guano, plus how to get rid of nuisance bats with responsible bat control strategies.

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Bat Droppings are Hazardous Waste

Guano is the droppings of bats or other animals. It is often found in caves or on ledges where the animals roost. Guano is composed of urine, feces, and other organic matter. The appearance of guano can vary depending on the species of bat. It may be light or dark brown, black, or greenish. It is usually moist and has a strong ammonia odor.

To identify guano, look for the distinctive odor of ammonia and signs of staining near a roosting site. Look for small piles of droppings or larger accumulations on cave walls or ledges. If you see bats near these areas, there is a greater chance that guano is present. It is also important to remember to wear protective gear when entering an area with bat droppings, such as a face mask and gloves.

By being able to identify guano, people can take the proper precautions necessary to protect themselves from potential health risks. Guano can be dangerous if it is disturbed. The ammonia in the droppings can cause respiratory problems and skin irritation. It can also contain bacteria and parasites that could spread disease. Therefore, it is important to identify guano before entering an area with bat droppings.

Ecological Importance of Bats

Though guano can be dangerous, it is also a valuable source of fertilizer and other nutrients in certain parts of the world. Bats also play a vital role in pollination and seed dispersal, and they are important predators of insects. In fact, some bats can eat up to 1,000 mosquitoes in a single night! By controlling insect populations, bats help to protect crops and reduce the spread of disease. In addition, bats play an important role in cave ecosystems, serving as a food source for other animals such as snakes and bats. Consequently, bats play a vital role in maintaining global ecosystem health.

Bat Control in Virginia

As you can see, bats are an important part of our ecosystem, and they should be protected. However, when bats start living in close proximity to humans or businesses, it can become a nuisance. Bat guano can damage property and create health hazards, and the noise bats make can be disruptive. Thankfully, there are professional wildlife abatement services that can safely control bat populations using humane strategies.

If you’re experiencing a problem with bats, don’t hesitate to call on the experts for help. Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control in Richmond, Virginia and its surrounding counties. We serve both residential and commercial clients.

Do Bats Migrate in the Winter?

Posted on November 14, 2022 by virginia

As the weather gets cold and the days get shorter, bats in North America begin to prepare for winter. Some species of bats will migrate to warmer climates, while others will hibernate through the winter months. Let’s take a look at where some of these amazing creatures go during winter.

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Migrating Bats in the United States

One of the most well-known migratory species of bat is the Mexican free-tailed bat. These bats can be found all over North America, but in the winter, they head south to Mexico and Central America. They roost in caves and other protected areas during their journey.

Another migratory species is the hoary bat. These bats are among the largest in North America and can be found in forested areas from Alaska all the way down to Mexico. In the winter, they head to warmer climates in Central and South America.

Non-Migratory Bats in the U.S.

Not all bats migrate when winter comes. Some species, like the little brown bat, will hibernate through the cold months. Hibernation is a state of dormancy that helps animals conserve energy. Bats will often hibernate in caves or other protected areas where they are safe from the cold and predators.

So where do bats go in the winter? Some migrate to warmer climates, while others hibernate in protected areas. No matter where they spend the winter, these amazing creatures are sure to amaze us with their resilience and adaptability.

How to Deal With a Winter Bat Infestation

While many bat species start to head south for the winter, not all of them make it. Some stay put, while others get lost along the way and end up in places they don’t belong. If you live in a Virginia area where there are local bat populations, you may find yourself dealing with a bat infestation in your home. Bats are attracted to warm, dark places, and your attic is the perfect spot for them to hunker down for the winter.

Dealing with a bat infestation can be tricky. You don’t want to harm the bats, but you also don’t want them living in your home. The best way to deal with a bat infestation is to hire a professional Richmond VA bat removal company. They will be able to safely and humanely remove the bats from your home and seal up any entry points so they can’t get back in.

If you find yourself dealing with a bat infestation this winter, don’t panic. Just give us a call and we’ll take care of it for you. Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control in Richmond, Virginia and its surrounding counties. We serve both residential and commercial clients.

The Importance of Rabies Vaccinations For Pets

Posted on November 2, 2022 by virginia

As a pet owner, it’s important to do everything you can to keep your furry friend healthy and safe. That’s why vaccinating against the Rabies Virus is so important. Continue below to learn more about the Rabies virus, plus how to keep your pet vaccinated against this deadly threat.

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Scary Facts About the Rabies Virus

Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the nervous system of mammals. It is most often transmitted through the bite of an infected animal and can be fatal if left untreated. Dogs are the most common source of rabies transmission to humans, and though vaccinations have made the disease much less common in developed countries, it is still a serious public health concern in many parts of the world.

There are two forms of rabies: Furious rabies is characterized by aggression and lack of fear, while Paralytic rabies progresses to paralysis and death. The incubation period for rabies is typically two to 12 weeks but can be as long as several months. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, and general malaise, followed by more specific symptoms such as seizures, hallucinations, and paralysis. Sadly, there is no cure.

Rabies Vaccines for Dogs and Cats

If you suspect that your dog has been exposed to rabies, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. There is no cure for rabies, but prompt treatment can be effective in preventing the disease from taking hold. Vaccination is the best defense against rabies, and all dogs should be up to date on their shots. If you live in an area where rabies is common, talk to your veterinarian about whether your dog should also receive a booster vaccine.

Rabies vaccines are available for both dogs and cats. By being aware of the risks and taking steps to protect your pets, you can help keep both your furry friend and your family safe from this deadly virus. The vaccine is typically given as a series of shots, starting at around four months of age. In most cases, vaccinating your pet is the best way to keep them safe from this deadly disease.

The Link Between Bats and Rabies

There is a strong link between bats and rabies. Bats are the main host of the rabies virus, and many people who are bitten by bats contract rabies. However, there are also many myths about bats and rabies. Bats are the main host of the rabies virus. In the United States, most rabies cases in animals are in bats. However, only a small percentage of bats carry the virus. Most bats that carry rabies do not show any signs of the disease.

There are many myths about bats and rabies. One myth is that all bats have rabies. This is not true. Only a small percentage of bats carry the virus. Another myth is that you can get rabies from just being near a bat. This is also not true. You can only get rabies if you are bitten or scratched by a bat that has the virus. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, wash the wound with soap and water and see a doctor immediately.

Consider Localized Bat Control

The best way to protect yourself and your pets from rabies is to avoid contact with bats. If your property is near a local bat population, it is recommended to implement an effective bat abatement plan. Contact a licensed and insured Richmond VA bat removal and control company for assistance you can trust.

Interested in learning more about safe bat management and abatement? Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for bat removal and control in Richmond, Virginia. We serve both residential and commercial clients in all surrounding counties and locations.

Virginia Big-Eared Bat Facts

Posted on October 28, 2022 by virginia

There are several species of bats found in Virginia. The most common bat in Virginia is the little brown bat. Other species include the big brown bat, the Mexican free-tailed bat, the silver-haired bat, and the beloved state bat, the Virginia Big-eared bat! Although all of these species are important to the ecosystem and play a role in controlling insect populations, let’s take a closer look at our state bat by reviewing some interesting facts about them!

Virginia Big eared bat is our state bat! — Professional Bat Removal Richmond Virginia 804-729-9097

Facts About the Virginia Big-Eared Bat

The Virginia Big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus) is a medium-sized bat, with adults measuring 4.5-5.7 cm (1.8-2.2 in) in body length and 7-9 cm (2.8-3.5 in) in wingspan. The fur on the back is brown or black, while the belly is paler. As its name suggests, this bat has large, conspicuous ears.

This bat is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, caves, and mines. It is a forest Dependent species, meaning that it requires forested habitat to survive. The Virginia Big-eared bat typically roosts alone or in small groups. It is known to form maternity colonies of up to 100 individuals.

As an insectivore, it primarily feeds on moths, but also mosquitos, gnats, flies, grasshoppers, and more. Like all other microbats, our state bat uses echolocation to locate its prey and navigate with heightened precision in the dark of night.

Fun Facts About All Bats

Bats are nocturnal creatures, so they are most active at night. During the day, they roost in trees, caves, and other dark places. Bats are very good flyers and can travel long distances in search of food.

Most bats eat insects. They use their sharp teeth to bite through the exoskeleton of their prey. Bats have a very good sense of smell and can locate their prey by following the scent of the insects.

Bats are important to the ecosystem because they help control the population of insects. Without bats, there would be more mosquitoes, beetles, and other pests. Bats eat millions of insects every night!

How to Support Local Bat Populations

There are several things you can do to help bats. One way is to provide a roosting site for them. You can do this by putting up a bat house in your yard. Another way to help bats is to avoid using pesticides and insecticides. These chemicals can kill the insects that bats eat.

If you see a bat during the day, it is probably sick or injured. Bats are very susceptible to diseases, so it is important not to handle them. If you find a sick or injured bat, please contact your local wildlife rehabilitator for help.

Are you trying to manage a nuisance bat problem in or around your property? Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for licensed and insured bat removal and control you can afford. We serve residential and commercial clients.

What is a Keystone Species?

Posted on October 14, 2022 by virginia

There’s no denying that the animal kingdom is full of surprises. From the tiny but mighty hummingbird to the gargantuan blue whale, there’s an incredible amount of diversity among Earth’s many creatures. And while we often think of animals as being limited to four-legged mammals or scaly reptiles, the truth is that there are all sorts of fascinating creatures out there, each with its own unique set of behaviors and adaptations. Whether you’re marveling at the strength of a wildebeest or the speed of a cheetah, it’s hard not to be awestruck by the wonders of the animal kingdom. In fact, most animals on our planet are vital to the surrounding ecosystem. These are known as keystone species.

Continue below to learn more facts about keystone species, including one Virginia bat that will surprise you!

Family of African Lions, a well-known Keystone species.

Keystone Species are Vital

A keystone species is a plant or animal that plays a critical role in the structure and function of an ecosystem. For example, large predators help to keep populations of their prey in check, which can help to maintain the balance of an ecosystem. Keystone species can also be important for pollination, seed dispersal, and other vital processes. When a keystone species is removed from an ecosystem, it can cause drastic changes that can result in the collapse of the entire system.

Examples of Keystone Species

There are many examples of keystone species in the natural world. One of the most well-known is the African lion. These predators help to control the populations of their prey, which can prevent overgrazing and keep the delicate balance of the ecosystem in check. Another example is the giant sequoia tree. These trees are some of the largest living organisms on Earth and play a vital role in sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Without them, our planet would be a much different place.

Humans can also have an impact on ecosystems as a keystone species. For better or for worse, our actions can cause drastic changes to ecosystems around us. We can inadvertently introduce invasive species that disrupt native ecosystems, or we can create pollution that harms or even kills plants and animals.

We can also choose to protect and conserve keystone species and their habitats, which can help to ensure the health of ecosystems around the world. No matter what our impact is, it’s important to remember that we are a part of the natural world, and our actions can have far-reaching consequences.

The Virginia Big-Eared Bat

The Virginia Big Eared Bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus) is a keystone species, meaning that its extinction would have a devastating ripple effect throughout the ecosystem. This bat is a subspecies of the Townsend’s big-eared bat, a species of vesper bat found in North America. This subspecies is endemic to Virginia, United States. The Virginia big-eared bat is listed as a Species of Concern by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. It is also state-listed as endangered in Virginia. The primary threat to this species is habitat loss and fragmentation.

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Why is the Virginia Big Eared Bat Endangered?

Posted on October 6, 2022 by virginia

The Virginia Big-Eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus) is a subspecies of the Big-Eared bat, which is found in North America. The Virginia big-eared bat is found in only four states in the United States: Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. The Virginia big-eared bat is a small bat, with a wingspan of only 8-10 inches. The body of this bat is brown or gray in color, with lighter fur on the underside. The ears of this bat are large and triangle-shaped, and the nose is long and narrow. This bat roosts in tree cavities, buildings, or other sheltered areas during the day. At night, it emerges to hunt for insects. The Virginia big-eared bat uses echolocation to navigate and find its prey.

The Virginia big-eared bat is an important species in its ecosystem. It plays a role in controlling the insect population, and it is also a food source for other animals such as owls and snakes. The biggest threat to the Virginia big-eared bat is habitat loss. This bat requires specific types of habitats in order to survive, and this habitat is being destroyed by development and other human activities. If this trend continues, the Virginia big-eared bat will likely become extinct. This is even more concerning due to the fact that the Virginia Big-Eared bat is listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and protected under the Endangered Species Act.

Continue reading to learn more about the Virginia Big-Eared bat, including why its species is endangered and what we can do to protect local bat populations for the sake of our surrounding Eco-systems.

The Endangered Virginia Big-Eared Bat

The Virginia Big Eared Bat is an endangered species, and this is a problem for a few reasons. First, these bats are important for the ecosystem because they help control insect populations. Second, as a top predator in the food chain, the Virginia Big Eared Bat provides valuable nutrients to other animals further down the food chain Third, the Virginia Big Eared Bat is a keystone species, meaning that its populations have a large impact on the health of the ecosystem as a whole. Finally, the Virginia Big Eared Bat is an important part of our cultural heritage, and its loss would be a tragedy.

Endangerment Status

There are many reasons why the Virginia Big Eared Bat is endangered. Habitat loss is the biggest threat to these bats, as their natural roosting and foraging areas are being destroyed by development. Additionally, the Virginia Big Eared Bat is threatened by white-nose syndrome, a disease that has decimated bat populations across North America. Climate change is also a major threat to these bats, as it is changing the timing of their migration patterns and making their habitat less hospitable.

The loss of the Virginia Big Eared Bat would have a devastating impact on the ecosystem. These bats play an important role in controlling insect populations, and their loss would likely lead to an increase in insect-borne diseases. Additionally, the Virginia Big Eared Bat is a keystone species, meaning that its loss would have a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem. The Virginia Big Eared Bat is also an important part of our cultural heritage, and its loss would be a tragedy.

The Importance of Bat Conservation Efforts

We must do everything we can to save the Virginia Big Eared Bat. We need to protect their habitat and take steps to mitigate the effects of climate change. We also need to raise awareness about the importance of these bats and the dangers they face. Only by working together can we hope to save this important species.

If you are dealing with nuisance bats around your Virginia home or business, enlist the services of a licensed and insured bat removal and control company for safe and humane handling of these precious critters.

Are you having problems with nuisance bats around your house? Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for fast and affordable bat removal services in Richmond, VA and its surrounding areas. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How to Detect a Bat Infestation in Your House

Posted on September 20, 2022 by virginia

If you notice any signs of bats in the house, be sure to contact a licensed Richmond bat removal and control company as soon as possible. Not sure how to detect bats in the attic or bats in the walls? Continue reading to learn the common signs of a bat infestation.

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Guide to Locating Bats in the House

There are many problems associated with having bats in the house. Not only do bats carry infectious diseases that can potentially be transmitted to humans and pets, but their droppings also pose several health risks, including a serious upper respiratory disease known as Histoplasmosis.

If you have bats in the house, you will need them extracted from your home, safely and humanely. Once extracted, they will be relocated to a faraway habitat where they can live out their significant lives in peace. As for your home, the job does not stop with bat removal. After bats are extracted, you will need further remediation to eliminate the mess, destruction, and health risks left behind.

If you suspect that you might have a bat infestation on your hands, there are some things you need to know right away. First, bats are not solitary mammals. They live in large colonies; so, where there’s one or two bats, there are likely many more. And since bats are nocturnal, they sleep quietly for most of the day. This means that they can go undetected by homeowners for a long time. The longer bats roost in your house, the more damage they cause, which ends up costing you money, time, and frustration that could have been avoided with proper nuisance wildlife prevention.

Fortunately, most Virginia bat removal companies also provide full-service decontamination and restoration work for bat damages. This includes disinfecting, sanitizing, and fumigating the area to eliminate waste and pests like bat mites and lice. It also includes replacing or renovating damaged areas like attic insulation, drywall, floorboards, siding, roof shingles, and more. Lastly, you will need your trusted Richmond bat removal and control company to implement the proper measures of wildlife proofing and prevention to stop future bat infestations.

Here are the Common Signs of Bats in the House:

Bats flying around your property at dusk and dawn.

Chirping, scratching, or screeching sounds in the walls or ceilings.

Inexplicable stains on walls and ceilings.

Foul odors lingering in the living quarters of the home.

Flutter noises in the attic or walls.

Bat droppings around doors and windowsills.

Greasy spots or stains on siding, doors, walls, or roofs.

Ready to schedule a professional a bat infestation inspection? Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for licensed and insured Virginia bat removal and control you can afford. We use safe and humane methods to deliver effective professional bat control for residential and commercial properties throughout Virginia.

What is a Microbat?

Posted on September 13, 2022 by virginia

In a previous blog, we discussed that all bat species are classified as one of two suborders, either Megachiroptera or Microchiroptera. In Virginia, we do not see megabats since they are biologically acclimated to tropical and subtropical climates. When local property owners are dealing with nuisance bat problems around here, it is always a Microchiroptera species to blame.

Continue reading to learn more about Megachiroptera suborder, and the common species native to the surrounding Virginia areas.

Yangochiroptera is the New Microchiroptera

Until recently, Microchiroptera was the suborder that included all microbat species. However, after new molecular evidence proved that size is not the most indicative factor in differentiating between megabats and microbats, “Microchiroptera” suborder is considered outdated. Most previously classified “microbats” are now classified as Yangochiroptera, with the exception of a few species. Furthermore, this evidence has also merged a few microbat species into the Yinpterochiroptera suborder, along with fruit bats, flying foxes, and other megabat species.

Special Note: For the sake of avoiding confusion, we will stick with the conversational terms, “microbats” or “Microchiroptera” in this blog.

Echolocation

One of the most significant differences between megabats and microbats is the use of echolocation. Megabats do not use echolocation, while virtually all microbats do. Echolocation, also known as “bio sonar”, is essentially a built-in sonar system that allows bats to navigate their surroundings more precisely, which aids in detecting, darting, and diving for insects.

Echolocation works by emitting ultrasonic sounds that bounce off objects and return as echoes. Bats then compare the outgoing ultrasonic pulses with the incoming echoes to create a detailed image in their brain of their exact surroundings.

Many people wrongly assume that bats are blind and have to use echolocation in order to see, when the truth is, bats see quite well, and simply rely on bio sonar for enhanced hunting and navigating. Sunglasses are a good example. We don’t need them to see when it’s sunny out, but when we wear them, we can see a lot better.

Diet and Habitat

Microbats are insectivores, which is actually good news for us. They are terrific pest control for summer mosquitos, flies, gnats, and more. Some species are even known to consume small fish, amphibians, birds, and even the blood of livestock. Although microbats are vital to our surrounding ecosystem and environment, they can sometimes find their way into our homes and businesses and create quite the mess. When microbats are not roosting (a species-specific posture of hanging upside down by their feet) in attics, crawl spaces, garages, walls, roofs, and more, they generally take shelter in hollowed trees, caves, log piles, and abandoned mines.

Behavior and Reproduction

Most bats are colonial, meaning they live in large colonies. They are not generally solitary mammals, although some species do live alone or with just a few other bats. It is common for colonies to have hundreds, or even thousands, of bats. Studies have shown that they are capable of forming and maintaining long-term relationships, and that many species use food sharing and mutual grooming to strengthen social bonds.

Late summer and early fall are the typical mating seasons for most species. After females finish mating, they store the male’s sperm until the following spring when they emerge from their hibernacula to find a new summer home where they will establish a nesting area to give birth to their young. These are referred to as “maternity” or “nursing” colonies. Bat babies, called “pups”, are usually born in May or June. Gestation periods last between 40 days and 60 days, and females usually give birth to just one or two pups that remain with them until the fall when the cycle of mating and hibernation repeats itself.

Common Virginia Bat Species:

◈ Virginia Big-Eared Bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus)
◈ Indiana Bat (Myotis solidalis)
◈ Gray Bat (Myotis grisescens
◈ Rafinesque’s Big-Eared Bat (Also known as the Southeastern Big-eared Bat)
◈ Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)
◈ Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus)
◈ Silvered Haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans)
◈ Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus)
◈ Evening Bat (Nycticeius humeralis)
◈ Eastern Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis)
◈ Northern Long-Eared Bat (Myotis septentrionalis)

Additional Species of Bat in Virginia

Additional species of microbat in Virginia include the Eastern Small-footed Bat, Eastern Pipistrelle Bat, Seminole Bat, American Long-Eared Bat, Lump-Nosed Bat, Ozark Big-Eared Bat, Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat, and the Northern Myotis.

Are you dealing with nuisance bats on your property? Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for prompt and professional bat removal and control you can afford. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Information About Nuisance Bats in Virginia

Posted on August 29, 2022 by virginia

Bats are an incredible species of mammal, and we are lucky to have them as a part of our surrounding Eco-system. Their high metabolic needs and diverse diets significantly impact our ecological communities by playing a vital role in pollination, seed dispersion, crop fertilization, insect control, protozoan hosting, ecotourism industries, and more. But like most things in life, where there are advantages, there are also disadvantages. If you are dealing with or concerned about nuisance bats around your property, it is essential to better understand them and their predictable behaviors.

Continue reading to learn important information about nuisance bats and bat control in Virginia.

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Common Signs of Nuisance Bats

Bats are common nuisances for home and business owners. They are attracted to dark, warm shelters to raise their young and hibernate through winter, including attics, crawl spaces, garages, sheds, roofs, and walls. They can enter through a crevice as tiny as 3/8^th inch, so it is easy for them to get inside a vulnerable structure. You can tell if you have bats in the house or around your property by looking for the signs. This includes hearing strange noises in the walls or attic at night, spotting animal droppings around windows or doors, smelling foul odors from attic or crawl space areas, and more.

Bat Damage Abatement and Repair

Bats can cause a long list of structural damages to a home, and the accumulation of their droppings can create an unsanitary, biohazardous environment. Furthermore, they pose a wide range of health risks since their guano can cause respiratory illnesses, and they may carry diseases and parasites like rabies, lice, mites, and more.

Fortunately, several professional wildlife control companies offer restoration and decontamination services for damages caused by bats. They will remove the bats from the space using safe and non-lethal methods, clean up the mess they made, sanitize the entire area, and restore any structural damages they caused from their stay.

True Facts About Bats and Rabies

Many people wrongly assume that all bats have rabies. The truth is that bats are common carriers of the rabies virus, but that does not mean all bats are carriers, nor does it mean that carriers are infected. If a bat is rabid, you will be able to tell by a blood test, which can only be done correctly by a state’s Department of Health. A rabid bat is not likely to be a threat since they generally seek out isolation to die. In fact, bats that are not sick are not likely to attack either. They are more afraid of us than we are of them. It is very rare for one to bite or attack unless provoked. This is why regular vaccinations are so vital for pets.

Bat Removal and Control

To properly eliminate a bat problem, bats must first be removed, and then specific precautions must be taken to ensure they cannot reenter your home or building. There are many things you can do yourself to reduce the level of wildlife activity around your property, such as removing all food and water sources, including bird baths, squirrel feeders, pet food, gardens, and more. You can also install automatic motion lighting or ultrasonic sound machines, as well as, spread predatory urine or other non-toxic repellents around your yard. Just use water, ground hot pepper, and menthol oil to make a homemade repellent.

Do you think you might have bats in the house or around your home? Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for prompt and professional bat removal and control you can afford. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Fascinating Facts About the Greater Mastiff Bat

Posted on August 19, 2022 by virginia

There are two primary orders of bats in the world: Microchiroptera and Megachiroptera. Megachiroptera bat species are mostly native to tropical regions of the world. They are large in size, have large visual cortexes, and feed on nectar and pollen of fruits and flowers. In fact, they are casually referred to as “Fruit bats” for this reason. Some are even called “Flying Foxes” due to their large heads and bodies.

In contrast to the large fruit bats of the world, Microchiroptera bats, or microbats, are much smaller, and retain a separate set of unique attributes. The most noticeable difference between megabats and microbats is size, but that does not mean there cannot be large microbats too.

Continue reading to learn some interesting facts about the largest Microchiroptera bat species in the United States!

Introducing the Greater Mastiff Bat (Eumops perotis)

The Greater Mastiff Bat goes by many names, scientifically Eumops perotis, but informally, it is also known as the Western Mastiff Bat, the Western Bonneted Bat, and the Greater Bonneted Bat. Greater Mastiff Bats are part of the Free-Tailed bat family, which includes well-known species like the Mexican Free-Tailed Bat, Northern Free-Tailed Bat, and the Spotted Free-Tailed Bat.

What They Look Like

The greater mastiff bat is the largest microbat species native to North America. Perhaps this is why their name reflects one of the larges canine species! Their average body size is between 5 and 8 inches in length. Furthermore, they have an impressive wingspan compared to other species of microbats, averaging between 20 and 22 inches.

As for overall mass, Greater Mastiff bats generally weigh between 2 and 3 ounces; although this sounds tiny, they are still larger than most other Microchiroptera species. Greater mastiff bats are most distinguishable by their large ears, which are so long, they extend out past their nose! Their fur is short and close to their bodies and appears in an array of gray and brown shades on their backs, with lighter shades of fur on their bellies.

Where They Live

Here in Michigan, you will not likely find a Greater Mastiff bat in your attic or flying around your property. That is because their natural range is in the Western parts of the United States, as well as Mexico and South America. They prefer the desert regions, especially along the border of Mexico, and even as far north as the Pacific coast of Alameda County, California.

Because the Greater Mastiff bat species are so large, they require more space and time to drop from their roosts and take flight. For this reason, they are often found roosting high up in rock fissures on the sides of cliffs. In fact, it was discovered that they require at least 20 feet of vertical drop in order to secure enough speed for flight. This means that if they become grounded, they must climb high enough to take a drop and fly away.

More Interesting Facts About the Biggest Microbat in the U.S.

No Time for Rest

Aside from being the largest species of Microbat that is native to North America, there are plenty more interesting facts about the Greater Mastiff bat. For instance, they do not migrate nor hibernate. Instead, they remain active all year long. This could be due to the comfortable seasonal climates the Western regions have to offer.

Threatened and Endangered

Because the Greater Mastiff bat is no longer found in the same numbers as they used to be in previously occupied regions, they are on federal special status. Although federally, they are considered a species of least concern, the Bat Conservation International still lists them as Threatened and Endangered.

Unique Mating

In contrast to other microbat species, males retain a skin glad that enlarges during mating season in the spring. This dermal gland produces a strong odor that researchers believe is meant to attract female bats. Females give birth to one single bat pup a year, and they can live between 10 and 15 years in the wild.

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