Little brown bats have a broad distribution in North America and are one of the most common bats in Georgia. At a glance, little brown bats look a lot like big brown bats. This species is about 2” to 3” in length with a wingspan of 9″ to 11 ”. The little brown bat has fur that comes in variable shades of browns. The fur on the belly is more buff in color that the fur on their back. It weighs about 1/4oz.
Mating occurs in autumn. Each female that has mated stores spermatozoa until she emerges from hibernation in the spring. At this time, fertilization takes place. The gestation period is about three months.
During the spring (May-August), females bearing young gather in maternity colonies (males and non-fertilized females will roost singly) within buildings, bridges, hollow trees, rock crevices, or similar warm areas. During this time a single little brown bat (called a pup) is born. The young bats are weaned in 3 to 4 weeks, at which time they learn to fly and catch insects.
Since little brown bats are insectivores , these maternity colonies may be found near a body of water where ample insects will be found. little browns will be seen flying erratically only feet above the water.
Little brown bats begin foraging for food after sunset. Little brown bats fly 10′ to 20′ above ground in open areas and among trees searching for flying insects. Their flight is guided by echolocation , due to this ability; it is rare for an adult bat to ever strike an object, including people.
Many people become alarmed when bats are found in an urban setting. Bats are relatively harmless and beneficial, but may become a nuisance if they take up residence in your home. The best way to prevent bats from entering a man-made structure is to “build the bats out”. This is done by sealing entry points with suitable materials.
Little brown bats are capable of flight speeds up to 22 mph.
In cooler climates, little brown bats spend roughly five months in hibernation.
learn more about bat pest control or, go to the bat removal page.
