Have you heard of the Hawaiian Hoary Bat?
These bats weigh about half an ounce, are only found in Hawaii, and are listed as endangered on a federal level.1 They arrived in Hawaii about 10,000 years ago, and are the only native land mammal in Hawaii anymore.2
Because of their small size, it’s hard for scientists to track them down and study them. So not as much information is known about these bats as other animals. However, scientists are gathering more information because it will help them better understand and protect this species.3
The Hawaiian Hoary Bat migrates between altitudes depending on the season. During the summer and autumn months, they’ll live in lower altitudes, which is better for pregnancy and fledging, and then during the winter, they’ll migrate to higher altitudes of over 5,000 feet. These bats tend to use the same areas for roosting and foraging over and over.3
Unlike other bats that may reside in caves, the Hawaiian Hoary Bat roosts in trees. They are nocturnal and so when the sun goes down, they’ll go hunt for food. A main source of prey for them is moths.2
There are several threats known to these bats. Including:1&2
- Barbed wire
- Wind turbines
- Communication towers
- Habitat loss
In order to help these bats, scientists are gathering more information about them so better decisions can be made for them. They’re also looking for ways to manage lands in a sustainable way in order to protect these bats and help them recover.3
Sources:
1. https://mauiinvasive.
2. https://www.nps.gov/
3. https://www.usgs.gov/