
California myotis
A species of Mouse-eared bats Scientific name : Myotis californicus Genus : Mouse-eared bats
California myotis, A species of Mouse-eared bats
Scientific name: Myotis californicus
Genus: Mouse-eared bats
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Description People often ask General Info

Description

The California myotis is a small (70–94mm and 3.3–5.4g) bat with pale, dull fur. Ears are of medium (12–15mm) size, with a narrow, pointed Tragus (ear). They have an obviously keeled calcar and very small feet (5–7mm), smaller even than the feet of the western small-footed myotis for which they are easily confused. Other distinguishing features include the slightly lighter face mask and shorter appearance of the California myotis' tail. While their tails are the same length, the small-footed myotis' tail extends 2–3mm after the connecting membrane (Uropatagia) which makes it appear longer. The Dental formula for M. californicus is 2.1.3.33.1.3.3 × 2 = 38


People often ask


General Info

Lifespan
15 years
Diet
California myotis thrives on a diet predominantly composed of small insects, specifically moths and beetles. It captures prey in flight, relying on echolocation for efficient navigation and hunting.
Appearance
California myotis is a small bat with a slender body and dense fur. It predominantly sports a light brown coloration with a slight golden hue, fading to paler underparts. This bat species has large ears and wings characterized with conspicuous dark veining. Both males and females generally share the same appearance but sizes slightly vary, males being marginally larger. Aging gives the fur a grey tint.
Behavior
California myotis is a nocturnal creature, known for its gregarious and highly social behaviors which involve colonial roosting and foraging. In its riparian habitat, it enters torpor during the winter, an adaption for survival. Predominantly insectivorous, it uses echolocation for navigation and hunting.

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Bats Family
Evening birds Genus
Mouse-eared bats Species
California myotis