Hoary Bat
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Lasiurus cinereus
Scientific name translation: "Ash-colored" |
Description
The hoary bat is one of the largest species of bats in North America. L. cinereus has a caramel-colored face with black tipped ears, they have a thick coat of salt-and-peppered fur leaving a frosted tipped appearance (or a hoary effect after which they're named). Hoary bats have two-toned wing patterns and a heavily furred tail membrane. Their membranes are dark brown with the exception of their forearms and digits that are more yellow–light brown. Hoary bats head and body length ranges from 72–84 mm, tail length ranges from 51–60 mm, ear length is approximatly 13 mm, and forearm length ranges from 45–57 mm.
Distribution
Although uncommon, hoary bats are one of the most widespread bats in the Americas. During the summer months, hoary bats can be found throughout most of South Dakota and then will migrate south out of the state during the winter.
Ecology
This species is a tree-roosting specialist, they are known to camouflage as a dead leaf by wrapping their tail membranes around themselves. Typically solitary, hoary bats will associate with other bats when feeding and will group together in the spring and fall when breeding and migrating. Hoary bats can fly as high as 8,000 ft at 13 mph during long-distance migrations.
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