Description
Rafinesque’s big-eared bat, scientifically known as Corynorhinus rafinesquii, is a species of vesper bat native to the southeastern United States. As its colloquial name suggests, this bat is characterized by its distinctively large ears, which can measure up to 1.5 inches in length. These remarkable ears aid in echolocation and are a defining feature of the species.
Appearance
The Rafinesque’s big-eared bat is easily distinguished by its exceptionally large ears, which are nearly half the length of its body. In addition to its prominent ears, this bat has soft, dense fur that ranges in color from pale gray to brown. Its wings are long and narrow, allowing for agile flight and precise maneuverability in the dark.
Distribution
Rafinesque’s big-eared bat is primarily found in the southeastern United States, including regions of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The species tends to inhabit a variety of habitats within this range, from hardwood forests to caves and abandoned structures.
Habitat Preferences
Rafinesque’s big-eared bat demonstrates a preference for hardwood habitats, utilizing roosting sites in caves, hollow trees, and man-made structures such as abandoned buildings. These bats are also known to forage in diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and agricultural areas. The availability of suitable roosting and foraging habitats is crucial to the survival and well-being of this species.
This comprehensive profile offers a detailed overview of the unique characteristics, appearance, distribution, and habitat preferences of the Rafinesque’s big-eared bat, serving as a valuable resource for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Facts About Rafinesque’s big-eared bat
- Rafinesque’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus rafinesquii) has long rabbit-like ears, measuring about 27-37 mm in length.
- This bat is known for its large ears, which are about 3 cm long in adults.
- They are slow, agile flyers and forage on a wide variety of small nocturnal insects, especially moths.
- The big-eared bat’s ears are extremely large, measuring about 1.25 inches in length.
- Rafinesque’s big-eared bat is a medium-sized bat, approximately 4 inches in length with a wingspread of about 11 inches.
- They hibernate near their foraging areas, often in caves or abandoned mines.
- The species is widespread in the southeastern United States, with a large number of roost sites and locations.
- The fur of the big-eared bat is long, soft, and bicolored.
- Rafinesque’s big-eared bat is among the least-known bats in the region and is considered poorly known.
- They weigh between 0.25–0.45 ounces and have a long, pointed tragus in the inner ear that is roughly two-thirds the length of the ear.