Hoary Bat – Common, Large American Bat

Hoary Bat – Common, Large American Bat

hoary bat head

 

The hoary bat is the largest bat found in the northern part of North America and lives among the evergreen trees in the mountains. It is a fairly common bat in North America and can also be found in South America and the Hawaiian islands. It stands out among the other of bats by its large size, pointed wings and irregular flight. The wings spread out to about 15 inches (38 cm). The term “hoary” refers to the white frosting on its coat.

 

hoary bat wings flight

 

The handsome bat lives mostly alone and likes to fly high above the treetops. It hunts insects, its favorites are luna moths and large beetles. These bats, like other bats in their family group, migrate south before the winter in autumn.

 

hoary bat wings outstretched

 

When mating the males must catch the female in mid-flight before coming down to earth a get down to business. The female does not make a nest herself but uses nice spots in the thick branches of the evergreen trees or else a leftover bird’s nest.

 

hoary bat