Species MammalsLittle Brown Bat

Little Brown Bat

Myotis lucifugus

CommonMammal
Illustration of Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus)
Safety note: May carry rabies — do not approach or handle.

The Little Brown Bat was once one of North America's most abundant bats, forming maternity colonies of thousands in buildings and caves. White-nose Syndrome, a fungal disease first detected in 2006, has killed over six million bats and devastated little brown bat populations across the eastern United States. Surviving individuals can live over 30 years, one of the longest lifespans of any small mammal.

Habitat
Forests, caves, buildings, and near freshwater
Diet
Mosquitoes, midges, caddisflies, and moths
How common
Common

Best time to see a Little Brown Bat

The best time to see a Little Brown Bat is May–August, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 566 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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