Summary of Bat Research in the Superior National Forest, MN 2016

Abstract

Crews from the USDA – Forest Service captured 43 bats in the Superior National Forest in June and July of 2016. Bats of five species were captured during mist-netting surveys. We captured 13 individuals of our target species, the northern long-eared bat, and attached transmitters to 7 adult females (3 nonreproductive, one pregnant, and three lactating). These seven bats were tracked to 13 unique roost trees of 3 species. During emergence counts we counted from 1 to 26 bats emerging from these roost trees. Roost trees varied in DBH and height as well as decay stage. Roosting patterns in the Superior National Forest were similar to roosting patterns we have observed in other areas of the state, where bats appear to be using a variety of available trees. This report details work done in the Superior National Forest 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.