Townsend’s Big-eared Bat

Townsend's Big-eared Bat
Photo Credit: Don Albright

Overview

  • Species Common Name Townsend's Big-eared Bat
  • Species Scientific Name Corynorhinus townsendii
  • Federal Listing Status Species of Concern
  • State Listing Status Sensitive

Ecoregions

    Special needs

    Townsend's big-eared bats use caves, mines, and isolated buildings for day and night roosting, maternity roosts, and hibernacula. They may gather in large concentrations. Occasionally, this species uses hollow trees and bridges for day or night roosting. Townsend's big-eared bats feed primarily on moths.

    Limiting factors

    This species has highly specific roost requirements (dependence on uncommon or at-risk structures for habitat) and is very sensitive to disturbance at roost sites. Reductions in their insect prey base and low reproductive rates may be further limiting factors.

    Conservation actions

    Use gates and seasonal closures to protect known roost sites during sensitive times (raising young and hibernation). Maintain buildings used as roosts. Retain and create large-diameter hollow trees during forest management activities. Monitor roosts.