Cave Myotis (Myotis velifer) (J. A. Allen, 1890) |
Myotis velifer occurs in North America, where it ranges from Arizona and Kansas to Honduras. These are colonial bats roosting in caves, rock crevices, mines, cracks in old buildings, under bridges, etc. They are associated with riparian habitats and woodlands at lower elevations, and pine-oak forests in foothills and mountains; up to 3,300 m. Some northern populations hibernate (mid-October to April), and others migrate. Most hibernacula are in caves. Colonies range from 2,000 to 20,000 individuals. M. velifer is a large Myotis; forearm 37-46 mm; weight 7-14 g. The fur colour ranges from sepia in the east to almost black in the west; the ears are short. Cave Myotis emerges from the roost after sunset to feed on moths, beetles, winged ants, and other flying insects. Longevity up to 10-12 years. No white-nose syndrome related mortality reported for this species.