The Canyon Bat, formerly called Western Pipistrelle, is the smallest bat in North America, with adults weighing as little as 3 grams. It is often the first bat to appear at dusk, flying in a slow, butterfly-like pattern low over water or rocky desert washes. Its yellow-orange fur and black face and wing membranes make it distinctive in desert landscapes.
Best time to see a Canyon Bat
The best time to see a Canyon Bat is April–August, when about 70% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 689 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Canyon Bat? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Canyon Bat sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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