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eastern pipistrelle (Tri-colored bat)

Fact File

Scientific Name: Pipistrellus subflavus subflavus

Classification: Mammalia, Order Chiroptera, Family Vespertilionidae

Identifying Characteristics

This is one of the smallest eastern bats with a total length of 2 3/4 to3 3/4 inches. It has yellowish-brown tricolor fur which along with the small size distinguishes it from other bats. There are 2, rarely 1, young born in sex-segregated maternity colonies from mid June to early July. They are active until late October, and hibernate in caves/mines often too tiny for other species. There are 1 to several hundred per cave which hang singly scattered about but prefer warm sites in protected passages. Individuals may occupy a precise spot each winter. They may roost in caves, rock crevices, trees/foliage, and seldom buildings. This species forages early evening in treetops, often over water. The life span is 4-8 years in the wild.

Distribution:

The Eastern Pipistrelle is found throughout the state of Virginia in caves, trees/vegetation, sometimes buildings in both wooded and cleared areas. They roost in caves in the winter and in caves, trees, cliffs and barns in the summer months.

Last updated: August 18, 2023

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