Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)
Image Copyright (c) Merlin D. Tuttle
Description: Body length about 3.4-5.4″, with a 13-16″ wingspan. Uniformly brown fur.
Range: Range: Very common bat in North America.
Habitat: Usually roost in old buildings, barns, behind shutters or in hollow trees. Often fly around city lights feeding on insects attracted to the light. Hibernate in cool, dry areas.
Diet: Beetles, ants, flies, leafhoppers, mayflies. Consume many agricultural pests. Often eat the equivalent of their body weight in insects each night.
Behavior: Emerge about 20 minutes after sunset. Often give birth to twins. Fly at 3-4 weeks of age. Hibernation can use up to 1/3 of body weight. Predators include hawks and Great Horned Owls. Lifespan about 19 years.
Risks: Roost disturbance during hibernation can cause starvation.
