DAUBENTON'S BAT
Myotis daubentonii
DESCRIPTION
Daubenton's Bat, also known as the water bat, is a medium-sized bat characterized by its broad, rounded ears and a distinctive fur coloration that ranges from brown to gray. This species is often found near water bodies, where it forages for insects, showcasing its agile flight patterns. Daubenton's Bat is known for its echolocation abilities, which it uses to navigate and hunt in the dark, making it a proficient nocturnal predator.
FUN FACTS
- Daubenton's Bat is known for its unique foraging technique, where it skims the surface of water to catch insects, making it a fascinating sight during dusk
- Additionally, this species has a remarkable ability to adapt to urban environments, often roosting in buildings and bridges, showcasing its resilience in changing habitats
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight8-15 g
Average Length4.5-5.5 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuregroup — often roosts in colonies but can also be solitary.
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (May-June)
- Habitat
- This bat prefers habitats near freshwater sources such as rivers, lakes, and ponds, where it can easily find its food. It roosts in tree cavities, buildings, and under bridges, often in colonies.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Freshwater
- Native Range
- Daubenton's Bat is found across Europe and parts of Asia, typically in regions with suitable water bodies.
- Continent
- Europe, Asia
- Countries
- United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Sweden
- Diet
- Daubenton's Bat primarily feeds on small flying insects, particularly midges and other aquatic insects. It often forages over water surfaces, catching prey in flight.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- midges, aquatic insects
- Social Structure
- group — often roosts in colonies but can also be solitary.
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 5-50
- Territorial
- 0
VU
8-15 g
Weight
4.5-5.5 cm
Length
- Coloration
- brown to gray fur with a lighter underside
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Gestation Period
- 50-60 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-2
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring (May-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Daubenton's Bat is generally stable, although local declines have been noted in some areas due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, particularly the draining of wetlands and pollution of water bodies. Additionally, climate change may impact their food sources and roosting sites.
- Predators
- birds of prey, such as owls and hawks; larger mammals like cats; and some species of snakes.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Daubenton's Bat relies on its echolocation for navigation and hunting, which also helps it avoid predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon