Western Small-footed Bat
Last Update/Review: June 17, 2002
The western small-footed bat (Myotis ciliolabrum) is relatively common throughout the western United States and the arid regions of Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. It is easily confused with other myotis species and can be identified reliably only after extensive experience. Nursery colonies have been found in caves and crevices in rock faces and clay banks. This species may be widespread in the badlands and arid river valleys in the Milk River area. It has been collected sporadically in southern Alberta, particularly from Dinosaur Provincial Park. Collections made in Dinosaur Park suggest some western small-footed bats bear young in the park and may hibernate there.
The western small-footed bat is a hardy species. In the western United States, it is the last species to enter hibernacula but the first to leave. Individuals hibernate in narrow crevices near the mouth of caves. Here the temperature often dips below freezing yet the small bats appear to be well adapted to the cold and dryness. Some western small-footed bats are known to hibernate in south-central Montana.
