Bats of Massachusetts
High above, bats glide through the night, their wings fluttering beneath a cloak of darkness. Among them is the little brown bat, one of North America’s most common bat species. Massachusetts is home to nine bat species, several of which are endangered. This article introduces a few of these species, explains how they survive, and explores why bats matter.
Hoary Bat
The hoary bat is the largest bat in Massachusetts. Despite its distinctive coat of white, brown, orange, and gray, it is rarely seen. Its long, rounded muzzle resembles a dog’s, giving it the appearance of a small flying canine. Unlike little brown bats, hoary bats prefer natural habitats to buildings and other structures. They often shelter in trees and emerge at nightfall to hunt large moths.
Why Bats Matter
Bats are essential to healthy ecosystems. Every bat species native to Massachusetts is insectivorous, and a single bat can eat up to 600 mosquitoes and moths in one hour. Without bats, insect populations could rise sharply and become unbalanced.
One of the greatest threats to bats is white-nose syndrome, first identified in New York in 2006. The fungus is believed to have originated in Europe. European bats are more resistant to it, but North American bats were highly vulnerable. The disease wakes bats too early from hibernation, causing them to burn through their fat reserves and die. After an estimated 6.7 million bats were killed, awareness of bats increased and conservation efforts expanded.
Tri-colored Bat
The tri-colored bat, once called the eastern pipistrelle, is one of the smallest bats in North America. It weighs only 0.1 to 0.3 ounces and typically lives up to eight years, although some individuals live longer.
Do Bats Really Suck Blood?
Not exactly. Some bats feed on blood from cows and other animals, but they do not go around sucking human blood. In fact, vampire bats do not suck blood at all. They make two small openings with their fangs, and a chemical in their saliva helps numb the wound. The bat then laps up the blood, much like a cat drinking water.
Northern Long-eared Bat
The final species featured in this article is the northern long-eared bat. True to its name, its ears can extend beyond its nose. This species is especially vulnerable to white-nose syndrome.
How You Can Help
To help local bats, consider installing a bat house. Bat houses provide shelter and may also reduce the number of insects around your home.
For information visit: