Myotis yumanensis
Range
They live in the western North America from southwestern Canada, through the western U.S. to western Mexico.Habitat
They are found in habitats near water (lakes, ponds, rivers and streams) from coniferous forests to dry, scrubby habitats.Body Traits
A small bat, weighing less than 1/4 of an ounce, they have tan-colored fur, that is lighter underneath than on top. They have a wingspan of less than ten inches. The ears are medium long with pointed tops and a pointed tragus in front.Habits
Yuma myotis come out at sunset to hunt for insects flying low over the water and using echolocation. Within a couple of hours they are fed, drink water and return to the roost. They roost under bridges, in caves and old mines, in hollow trees, and in abandoned buildings and attics that are close to water. In some locations they roost with large numbers of other bats. They spend the winter hibernating (in torpor).Diet
They eat insects, flying low over the water and shoreline at sunset. Scientists estimate that they can eat half their weight in insects nightly.Predators
They may be killed by owls or hawks hunting near the water at sunset.Reproduction
Females gather in breeding colonies in the spring and give birth to a single baby (pup) in May-June. The males do not help with young.Lifespan and/or Conservation Status
Yuma myotis have been affected by white-nose syndrome, a deadly fungal disease that has hurt so many North American bat species. Though they are listed on the IUCN Red list as “least concern” the fungal disease may affect their long term populations.
Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Chiroptera
- Family: Vespertilionidae
- Genus: Myotis
- Species: M. yumanensis