The Hoary Bat is the largest bat native to North America and the only bat species native to the Hawaiian Islands, having colonized them from North America. Its thick, frosted gray-brown fur provides the origin of its name, and its wingspan of up to 16 inches is substantial for a North American bat. Hoary bats are long-distance migrants that have been recorded in the Azores and Bermuda.
Best time to see a Hoary Bat
The best time to see a Hoary Bat is March–August, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,132 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Hoary Bat? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Hoary Bat sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Hoary Bat? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Hoary Bat is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love mammals? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.