California Myotis

Myotis californicus

Description: Body length of 2 7/8" to 3 3//8", wingspan about 9". Long, dull fur, lightish to dark brown with golden cast on head, paler fur below. Medium length dark brown or black ears and mask, dark wings and tail membrane.

Range: Found across most of western North America.

Habitat: Lives in desert scrub and semi-arid regions. Likes rocky canyons, roosts under tree bark or bridges, in buildings.

Diet: Small flies, moths, other insects.

Behavior: Sometimes hibernates in mineshafts. Can make abrupt mid-flight turns, making flight look erratic. Starts feeding early in evening. Forms small nursery colonies, bears a single young each year.