BATS ON P.E.|.

by Geoff Hogan, U.P.E.I. Biology Department

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Relatively little is known about bats on Prince Edward Island except as unwanted intruders in attics :and summer cottages. While almost -everyone can recall at least one encounter

with these fascinating mammals few people have taken the time to observe them closely. We know that our most common species is the Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus lucifuggg) but what other species, if any, occur here? Cameron (1958) reported seeing what was believed to be a Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis)near Fortune Bridge on June 7, 1954 but no Positive identification was made. Other species that occur in New Brunswick and

“1“ Nova Scotia and that may possibly be --—- found here include, in addition to the species already mentioned: Keen's Bat (Myotis keenii); Small-Footed Bat (Myotis leibii); Silver-Haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans): Eastern Pipistrelle

(Pipistrellus subflavus); Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus); and Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus). _

The general habits, roosting sites, etc. vary among species with some favoring heavily wooded areas and others more settled habitats where unoccupied (and sometimes occupied!) buildings occur. Some species are gregarious and others solitary. There are many myths and superstitions surrounding these much maligned insect eaters. Many people shudder at the thought of a bat hopelessly tangled in their hair; however such occurrances are extremely rare. Any bats swooping over people's heads are after mosquitoes and other biting insects so, in fact, the bats are performing a useful service.

In order for us to learn more about these interesting mammals and their status on P.E.I. we would appreciate receiving information con- . cerning roosting places, spring arrival and fall departure dates, yx

information on overwintering (if indeed, this does occur on P.E.I.), as well as receiving any specimens that may be obtained. For further information on bats refer to the follow- ing articles available at the U.P.E.I. Library.

References:

Banfield, A.W.F. 1977. The Mammals of Canada. Nat. Mus. of Natural Sciences. U. of Toronto Press. Toronto 438 p.

Cameron, A.W. 1958. Mammals of the islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Nat. Mus. of Canada, bull. no. 154. 165 p.