| Eastern Small-footed Bat | |
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Mammalia |
| Order: | Chiroptera |
| Family: | Vespertilionidae |
| Genus: | Myotis |
| Species: | M. leibii |
| Binomial name | |
| Myotis leibii Audubon & Bachman, 1842 |
|
The Eastern Small-Footed Myotis (Myotis leibii) or Eastern Small-footed Bat is a species of vesper bat in the family Vespertilionidae. It can be found in Ontario and Quebec in Canada and in the eastern United States.[1] It is among the smallest bats in eastern North America.[2]
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The Eastern Small-Footed Bat is 65–95 mm in total length, and weighs between 4–8 grams.[3] It has a 25–45 mm (1–1.75") tail length, has a 210–250 mm (8.3-9.2") wingspan. Like all bats, the Eastern Small-Footed Bat has a flight membrane that connects the body to the forelimbs and tail, which creates the bats flight. Its ears are under 15 mm (0.6"). Its fur is soft and silky, colored yellowish tan to golden brown . Its belly is gray, while its face, ears, wings, and interfemoral membrane are black.[2] Its distinguishing characteristics are its black face mask, and its tiny 7–8 mm (0.3") hind feet.
The Eastern Small-Footed Bat ranges from The Northeastern United States and Canada down to Georgia and across to Oklahoma.[3]
They are active in mountainous regions from 240 to 1125 meters, preferring deciduous or coniferous forests. They may roost in rock bluffs, buildings, and turnpike tunnels during the spring and summer. They hibernate during winters in caves and mines, hanging near the opening, or moving deeper as winter temperatures drop.
Little is known about the reproductive habits of the Eastern Small-Footed Bat.[3] Mating usually occurs in Autumn, and the sperm is stored within the female until spring, when fertilization occurs. The offspring are born in late May to July.
The Eastern Small-Footed Bat has been recorded living up to the age of 12 years.[3]