Species Description of Daubenton’s Myotis

Common Name: Daubenton’s Myotis
Scientific Name: Myotis daubentonii

Habitat: Daubenton’s Myotis is primarily found across Europe and parts of Asia. This species prefers habitats around freshwater bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and ponds, where it roosts in tree cavities or buildings near water. The presence of abundant insect populations in these environments makes them ideal for this bat species.

Physical Characteristics: Daubenton’s Myotis is a medium-sized bat, with a wingspan ranging from 24 to 30 centimeters. The fur is typically a mix of brown to gray, with lighter underparts. This species is recognizable by its broad, rounded ears and distinctively large feet, which are adapted for catching insects in flight. A characteristic trait includes the presence of long, soft fur on the body, enhancing its camouflage in natural settings.

Behavior: Known for its agile flying capabilities, Daubenton’s Myotis often forages over water surfaces, utilizing echolocation to track down insects. These bats are social creatures, usually roosting in colonies. They are primarily nocturnal, feeding during the night while they exhibit a unique hunting technique that involves skimming the water’s surface for insects. During colder months, they migrate to warmer areas or hibernate in sheltered locations.

Diet: Daubenton’s Myotis primarily feeds on small flying insects, including midges, moths, and beetles, which are often found near water sources. Their hunting strategies are adapted to maximize efficiency during the peak insect activity periods. This diet is crucial for controlling insect populations, making them valuable to the ecosystem.

Reproduction: The breeding season for Daubenton’s Myotis occurs in late summer to early autumn. Females typically give birth to one or two pups, usually in late spring or early summer. Parental care is provided by the mother, who nurses the pups until they are capable of flying and foraging independently, typically after a few weeks.

Conservation Status: Daubenton’s Myotis is currently classified as ‘Least Concern’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, local populations can face threats from habitat loss and pesticide use, making conservation efforts essential to maintain their populations.

Interesting Facts: This bat species is often referred to as the “water bat” due to its unique feeding habits over aquatic environments. Daubenton’s Myotis can catch up to 600 insects in an hour, showcasing their efficiency as natural pest controllers. They are also known to hover over the water, a behavior that distinguishes them from other bat species.

Role in Ecosystem: Daubenton’s Myotis plays a vital role in the ecosystem as a natural predator of insects, helping to regulate insect populations in their habitats. Their presence contributes to the health of aquatic ecosystems, as they thrive in environments with abundant biodiversity and clean water sources. Additionally, they serve as prey for larger predators, thus maintaining the ecological balance.