Southwest Michigan is home to a diverse array of bat species, each with its own unique characteristics and adaptations. One such species is the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus), which is the most common bat found in the region. These bats are small in size, typically measuring around 3-4 inches in length, and are known for their dark brown fur and glossy appearance. Another fascinating bat species native to this area is the big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus). As their name suggests, these bats are larger than their little brown counterparts, with an average wingspan of 13-16 inches. They possess a robust build and are easily identified by their long, broad ears. Lastly, the eastern red bat (Lasiurus borealis) can also be found in Southwest Michigan. These bats are known for their vibrant reddish fur, which provides excellent camouflage when roosting among foliage. With their unique physical characteristics and intriguing behaviors, the bat species native to Southwest Michigan offer an engaging glimpse into the fascinating world of these nocturnal creatures.
Bat Species Native to Southwest Michigan
Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus)
The Little Brown Bat is one of the most common bat species found in Southwest Michigan. These small, insect-eating bats have a wingspan of about 9-11 inches and are known for their dark brown fur. They typically roost in caves, trees, or man-made structures like attics and barns. Little Brown Bats are highly beneficial to the ecosystem as they consume large quantities of insects, including mosquitoes.
Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)
The Big Brown Bat is another prevalent bat species in Southwest Michigan. These bats have a larger size compared to the Little Brown Bat, with a wingspan ranging from 12-16 inches. Their fur is dark brown, often with a slightly reddish tint. Big Brown Bats are adaptable and can be found in various habitats, including forests, urban areas, and agricultural landscapes. They primarily feed on moths, beetles, and other flying insects.
Eastern Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus subflavus)
The Eastern Pipistrelle, also known as the Tri-colored Bat, is a small bat species commonly found in Southwest Michigan. These bats have a wingspan of approximately 8-9 inches and are known for their unique coloration. Their fur is reddish-brown at the base, transitioning to yellowish-brown towards the tips. Eastern Pipistrelles roost in tree cavities, buildings, and bat boxes. They feed on a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, moths, and flies.
Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalis)
The Indiana Bat is an endangered bat species that can be found in Southwest Michigan. These bats have a wingspan of about 9-11 inches and are known for their glossy, dark brown fur. Indiana Bats typically roost in caves, mines, and occasionally trees. They feed primarily on night-flying insects, such as beetles and moths. Due to their endangered status, it is important to protect and conserve their habitat.
Silver-haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans)
The Silver-haired Bat is a medium-sized bat species found in Southwest Michigan. These bats have a wingspan ranging from 10-11 inches and are named after their silver-tipped fur. They often roost in tree cavities, buildings, and bat boxes. Silver-haired Bats primarily feed on moths, beetles, and other flying insects. They are known for their long-distance migrations, traveling hundreds of miles during the warmer months.
Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis)
The Red Bat is a tree-roosting bat species commonly found in Southwest Michigan. These bats have a wingspan of approximately 11-13 inches and are known for their reddish-brown fur. Red Bats often hang upside down on tree branches, using their unique coloration to blend in with the foliage. They primarily feed on moths, beetles, and other flying insects. During the winter, Red Bats migrate to warmer regions or hibernate in tree cavities or buildings.
Remember, bats play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem by controlling insect populations. If you encounter bats on your property and require assistance, it is recommended to contact a professional wildlife control operator who can safely handle bat removal and relocation.
Contact For Wildlife Control Help
We understand that dealing with unwanted animals on your property can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. At Best Way Animal Removal, we are here to provide you with reliable and efficient animal removal services. Our team of experts is trained to handle a wide range of wildlife situations, ensuring the safety of both you and the animals involved. If you are in need of immediate assistance, please do not hesitate to give us a call at (616) 836-4255. Let us take care of your animal removal needs so that you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is free from any unwanted visitors.