6 NEBRASKAland • APRIL 2018
A
Mammal
Brief
Big Brown Bat
With a wingspan of 13 inches, it is easy to see why this species got its name. Compared to other Nebraska
bat species, which range in wingspan length from 8-12 inches, the big brown bat is one of the state's largest
species. Found throughout North America, this species can be found in a variety of habitats including cities,
farms, pastures and forests. During the summer months, they roost in hollow trees, barns, silos and attics.
During the winter months, this species remains in Nebraska, taking shelter in caves, mines, attics and cellars.
Because they often utilize human-made structures for roosting and hibernacula, they are one of the most
commonly encountered bat species in Nebraska.
Like all Nebraska bat species, the big brown bat is an insectivore, eating copious amounts of night-flying
insects such as beetles, leaf-hoppers and moths. Each lactating female can easily eat her weight in insects each
night. Because of this, bats are vitally important to Nebraska's wildlife ecology. They also provide significant
benefit to Nebraska's agricultural economy. And, for those of us who enjoy summer evenings outside, having
bats around provide chemical-free mosquito control. ■
Lindsay Rogers is an outdoor education specialist with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
PHOTO
BY
ERIC
FOWLER
By Lindsay Rogers
