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Indiana bat

Myotis sodalis

The Indiana bat is closely related to the little brown bat and is a North American endemic, with populations occurring primarily from central to eastern United States. They range in total length from 70.8 to 90.6 mm and have a wingspan of 240-267 mm.

 

During the hibernation period (October through April), these bats primarily occupy cool and moist limestone caves, but less frequently can be found hibernating under the bark of dead trees. Caves with these conditions are rare within the species' range.

 

During the warmer months, bats of this species migrate to warmer parts of their range and roost primarily under the bark of large trees (hickory, oak, elm, and pine, to name a few), though buildings and the underside of bridges may also be occupied for this purpose. 

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The Indiana bat is insectivorous, and northern populations such as those found in Connecticut prey primarily on wetland-associated insects. Echolocation is used for prey capture which occurs at night. 

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Federally listed as Endangered, and listed as Endangered and a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Connecticut's Wildlife Action Plan, the Indiana bat is currently the most at risk species in Connecticut. Across its entire range, the primary threat to the species is habitat loss due to human activity, however, white-nose syndrome is the primary threat to Connecticut bats and has greatly reduced populations of this bat in the state in tandem with human-driven habitat loss. 

Burgess, A. (2012). Myotis sodalis (Indiana bat). Animal Diversity Web. https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Myotis_sodalis/

 

CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. (2016). Bats. CT.Gov - Connecticut’s Official State Website. https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Fact-Sheets/Bats

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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. (2006, December). Indiana Bat (Myotis Sodalis). https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/mammals/inba/inbafctsht.html

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