About Me

My photo
Native Californian, biologist, wildlife conservation consultant, retired Smithsonian scientist, father of two daughters, grandfather of 4 small primates. INTJ. Believes nature is infinitely more interesting than shopping malls. Born 100 years too late.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Spooks in the rock pile



We were surprised to find Townsend's big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) up and around in November when the weather is cool.

Those magnificent ears are hard to mistake for any other species out here.



However, below 62 degrees F most big-ears are lethargic.

Maybe mild temperatures called them out of their caves.

December 1 was the last night a big-ear swooped into the recess.



(Pssst! Guess what? this one is a boy!)


Reference


Barbour, R.W. and W.H. Davis. 1969. Bats of America. University of Kentucky Press, Lexington

3 comments:

Timecheck said...

Great pictures, especially the center one. Makes me think about digging out my Wildview stc-tgl5m again. It goes thru 4 c cells in about 2 days and I have a mental block against using so many batteries. They have a lead acid battery I could order, but so far haven't done it. Maybe I'll bite the bullet now that you've inspired me.

Camera Trap Codger said...

Hey, pardner, try some rechargeable NiMHs. And thanks for the comment.

Ed said...

BEEEAUTIFUL! You sure got my attention with those wonderful shots of the big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii). CONGRATS