PYGMY LONG-EARED BAT
Plecotus auritus
DESCRIPTION
The Pygmy long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus) is a small bat species known for its distinctive long ears and small size. It is primarily found in Europe and parts of Asia, often roosting in trees and buildings.
FUN FACTS
- Pygmy long-eared bats can detect prey using their highly sensitive ears | They are one of the smallest bat species in Europe | Their long ears can be as long as their body
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight5-10 g
Average Length3.5-4.5 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally found in small groups during breeding
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (May-June)
- Habitat
- Pygmy long-eared bats prefer wooded areas, grasslands, and urban environments where they can find suitable roosting sites. They often inhabit areas near water sources.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Grassland, Urban
- Native Range
- Europe and parts of Asia
- Continent
- Europe, Asia
- Countries
- United Kingdom, France, Germany, Poland, Russia
- Diet
- This bat primarily feeds on insects, particularly moths and beetles. It uses echolocation to hunt for its prey during flight.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- moths, beetles
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally found in small groups during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
VU
5-10 g
Weight
3.5-4.5 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Light brown to gray fur with a paler 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 is currently stable, but local declines have been observed in some areas due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, pesticide use, and disturbance of roosting sites. These factors can lead to declines in local populations.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, larger mammals
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their ability to fly and echolocation to evade predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Rare