New Insights on the Distribution, Ecology, and Overwintering Behavior of the Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) in Alaska

Abstract

Abstract We initiated the citizen science-based Alaska Bat Monitoring Project in 2004 to investigate the distribution, habitat use, and seasonal ecology of the Little Brown Myotis in Southcentral, Central, and Western Alaska. As of 2012, we received reports of bats from 252 unique locations across the focus area, including Kotzebue, White Mountain, Saint Michael, and the Semidi Islands, which represent significant range extensions for bats in the state. Ninety-seven percent of 111 roosts were located in human structures. Maternity colonies were identified in 48 locations, all in human structures. The majority of observations were reported in late July, August, and September, but we received observations every month of the year. We received reports of bats in 25 unique locations during the winter period from October to April. Winter bats were all associated with buildings unless observed flying outdoors; no hibernacula in natural substrates were documented. Timing and locations of winter observations imply...