Big Brown Bat
Source: Reprinted
with permission of the WNC
Nature Center
Scientific Name: Eptesicus fuscus
Family: Vespertilionidae
Size: This bat has a wing span of approximatley 12 to 14 inches and a length of about 4.5 inches.
Description: The fur of the big brown bat is light to dark brown in color. The bat's face, ears, and wings are dark brown to black. This species is nocturnal (active at night) and hibernates in the winter. This species has been known to carry rabies.
Diet: The big brown bat feeds on mosquitos and other flying insects.
Habitat: The big brown bat often roosts in buildings and other human-made structures. Natural habitats may include caves, trees, and mines. In GGNRA, these bats have been known to inhabit old bunkers in the Presido.
Status: This species is not listed as a special status species.
Interesting Information: This bat species tolerates human disturbance more than most bats, but long-term disturbances may cause the roost abandonment. This species and other other bat species are very sensitive to pesticiedes. The ingestion of pesticides can be fatal to the bats.
References:
Greenhall, Arthur, M. 1982. House bat management. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Resource Publication 143. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Home Page. (Version 15MAY98).
National Audubon Society. 1998. Field Guide to California. Peter Alden et al. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.
