California Myotis Bat 

(Myotis Californicus)

PHOTOS BY MERLIN TUTTLE

Fur is a dull (not shiney) light tan to black.  Medium sized ears. One of our smallest species in Yosemite.
Primary Prey: Moths, mosquitoes, flies and beetles.
Predators: Domestic cats, martens, fishers, mice, owls, hawks, snakes, raccoons, and other small carnivores. 
Range: West coast of North America from Alaska to southern Mexico. Low elevations, not in interior mountains. Common in riparian area. Many may not hibernate.
Status: 
Risks: May be affected by closure of abandoned mines without adequate surveys and by recreational caving. This species may be affected by some timber harvest practices, particularly the removal of large diameter snags.
Behavior: Peak activity about 1 hour after sunset. 
Day roosts in crevices, under bark, rock outcroppings, hollow trees, behind signs or in caves and mines. Hunts mostly over the water and along the forest edge. Individuals are known to be active periodically in the winter, even at temperatures below freezing. Special storage of fat on back may be converted to heat during cold periods. Females roost alone or form small maternity colonies.
Wingspan: 30 cm / 11-13 inches 
Weight: Avg. 4 g /.15 oz
Body Length: Avg. 85 mm  /2.8-3.7 inches
Offspring: 1 pup             
Gestation (pregnancy): 50-60 days. Young fly at 4 weeks old
Lifespan: Avg. 15+ years