128: Fringed Myotis

Living in Ponderosa Pine woodland and other coniferous forests on both side of the Continental Divide, the Fringed Myotis is a species of vesper bat that roosts in caves, abandoned mines, and behind the loose bark of trees. They have never been seen in winter in Colorado, suggesting that they hibernate here. Little is known about these elusive bats, who glean leaves at dusk of spiders, beetles, moths, and flies. Their roosts – used both for hibernation and for the 50-60 period when mother bats live in maternity colonies with their single annual offspring – are easily disturbed by human activity.

This species in particular seems to be sensitive to changes in their environment, especially the clearing of old growth forest. Pesticides as well as toxic chemicals released by mining and other industries also threaten this species in Colorado.

The wings of the Fringed Myotis allow it to fly at low speeds but with high maneuverability; they are also thick and resistant to punctures, important for foraging around thorny plants.

The reference photograph I found for this bat made me think of an awkward school photo from the 90s, so I drew her in that style.