Your Guide to Michigan’s Bats
Michigan is known to have a large number of bats, with nine different bat species identified in the state. Bats in Michigan are renowned for their nocturnal habits, as they conduct their activities at night.
You’ll rarely see bats flying around during the day, which is one of the reasons why some people have bizarre beliefs about these creatures. However, bats are not as dangerous as most people believe, instead, they feed on insects and don’t pose any real harm to humans. You may not know much about bats and the different species. If that is the case, this article will tell you a bit more about them. Read on to discover more information about Michigan’s different bat species.
Common Species Of Bats in Michigan
The most common bats in Michigan include:
1. The Big Brown Bat
The Big Brown Bat is the most common type of bat in Michigan and they prefer to live in enclosed spaces such as caves, tunnels, and attics. They are a unique breed with a hairless wingspan that can reach 12 inches in length. As the name implies, this species of bats are brown and their black eyes stand out. The cucumber beetle is a special source of vitamins for this particular bat as it mostly feeds on the insect.
2. Little Brown Bat
The Little Brown Bat name may give the impression that this species of brown bat is a smaller variant of the great brown bat, but this is not the case. They are two separate species. The brown bat and the little brown bat have comparable traits, such as similar fur color, hairless wings, and a fondness for enclosed spaces. One of the major differences between them lies in the length of their wingspan.
3. Hoary Bat
The Hoary Bat is another species among the bat family. This breed acts a bit differently because they prefer to live in trees and are rarely seen in residential areas. It has a patterned fur that is a mix of white and brown, but one odd feature is the color of its throat, which can be a shade of yellow or orange at times. This bat, unlike the rest of its species, prefers to travel in quest of food alone. On rare occasions, you might find the Hoary Bat in the company of other bats.
4. Eastern Red Bat
The Eastern Red Bat also has a penchant for trees and lives in them. This bat’s physical qualities include red fur and a 13-inch wingspan. It generally travels alone, similar to the hoary bat, and has a surprisingly low rate of reproduction. Only one offspring per time can be birthed by this bat. Compensation for this can be its ability to fly at high speeds.
5. Silver-Haired Bat
When compared to the previously stated species, the Silver-Haired Bat is considered diminutive in stature. The silver-haired bat has black fur with white highlights and an 11.5-inch wing span. They are quite slow in comparison to other bats. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Silver-Haired Bat is its ability to burrow through the ground in search of food, which is unlike the other bats.
Bat Problem in Metro Detroit?
Bats in Michigan do not pose a threat to residents, instead, they positively contribute to the ecosystem. They feed on pests like bugs and mosquitoes, which helps to keep them at bay. They also contribute to cultivation by disseminating seeds and pollinating flowers. However, they can be troublesome if they make it into your attic or basement. They may nest in the walls, requiring an experienced bat removal service.
If you’re worried about bats on your property, contact a pest control expert or wildlife preservation professional to come in and safely remove them. Solidified Pest Control is your pest control Michigan expert. Contact us today at (866) 614-6762.
