Big Free-tailed Bat

Nyctinomops macrotis

Description: Bigger than other free-tailed bats, body length of 5 1/8 to 5 3/4", with a 17" wingspan. Fur is reddish brown to dark brown, with hairs white at base. Tail extends past membrane at least an inch. Ears are joined at base, rather big, extend out over face like a bonnet.

Range: Isolated populations throughout southwestern U.S., into Mexico.

Habitat: Lives in rocky areas of desert scrub or coniferous forests. Roosts by day in crevices on cliff faces.

Diet: Mostly moths, some crickets, grasshoppers, ants, various other insects.

Behavior: Forms colonies, emerges late to feed. Chatters while eating. Bears one young each year, in the early summer.