Summary of Bat Research in Camp Ripley Training Center and Arden Hills Army Training Site, MN 2016

Abstract

Crews from the Environmental Office at Camp Ripley Training Center (CRTC) captured 92 bats in CRTC from June 6th – 24th, and 99 bats at Arden Hills Army Training Site (AHATS) July 6th – 10th, 2016. Bats of seven species were captured during mist-netting surveys, including the first recorded capture of an evening bat (Nycticeius humeralis) in the state of Minnesota. We attached transmitters to 3 pregnant northern long-eared bats at CRTC and 3 lactating little brown bats at AHATS. Three northern long-eared bat roost trees were identified at CRTC. The little brown bats captured at AHATS were tracked to two roosts, both in buildings. Roost trees at CRTC varied in height and decay stage. The roosting patterns observed at CRTC were similar to roosting patterns we have observed in other areas of Minnesota, where bats appear to be using a variety of available trees. This report details work done at CRTC and AHATS as part of a statewide study of northern long-eared bats. A report summarizing results of the statewide project will be available in early 2017.