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Red Bat
Lasiurus borealis
At-a-Glance
• Mating: Polygamous
• Peak Breeding Activity: fall
• Gestation Period: Approximately 80-90 days
• Young are Born: May and June
• Feeding Periods: One hour or two after sunset and before sunrise.
• Typical Foods: Insects, especially small soft-bodied moths, beetles, flies, and caddis flies that are trapped under closed tree canopies over small streams.
• Ohio Status: Species of Concern
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Description
Male red bats are a bright red to reddish-brown color and females are usually yellowish with a reddish tint. This species of bat has dense, soft fur all over its body, including on its uropatagium (the skin connecting its legs and tail). They have long pointed wings, a long tail and white shoulder patches.
Habitat and Habits
Red bats are solitary and prefer to roost in trees, shrubs, and clusters of weeds in the summer. They overwinter in trees and tree cavities.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Breeding takes place during the late summer and early fall. Although sperm is transferred to the female during copulation occurring in the fall, ovulation and fertilization of the egg are delayed until the females arouse from hibernation the following spring. Red bats usually have two to three pups in a litter. At four to six weeks, the pups are weaned and learn to fly. |
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