species
  • Vespertilio

Geoffroy's bat Myotis emarginatus

Geoffroy's bat is a rare species in Germany that closely resembles the whiskered bats. The light brown to reddish brown fur and the typical almost right-angled indentation on the outer edge of the upper third of the ear are important identification features. It is very rare in Germany, but could continue to spread in the course of climate change, if its habitats are protected.

emarginatus
emarginatus
emarginatus
emarginatus
emarginatus
emarginatus
characteristics
habitat descriptionClimatically favored deciduous forests, scattered orchards, also in settlement areas, i.e. parks, water bodies, gardens. Structurally rich landscapes, also typically hunts in cattle sheds.
quarters Nursery roosts in buildings, i.e. attics of churches, private houses, cattle sheds. Seem to prefer relatively light and cool roof spaces. In southern Europe, they use warm caves.
Hibernate underground in caves, cellars, mines, etc.
reproductionNursery roost sizes of 20-500 females, including occasional males. Births mid-June to mid-July. Females probably sexually mature in first year. Mating: Swarming at winter roosts in the second half of August. Then hibernate until April or even May.
size - Head-torso length: 41-53 mm
- Forearm length: 36.7-44.7 mm
- Wingspan: 220-245 mm
weight 6-9 g
color/furAppear grayish reddish brown to orange. Younger animals slightly more grayish. Underside light gray.
nose shapePointed snout.
ear shapeLight brown, typical notch on outer edge of ear.
wing shapeRelatively broad.
flight Skilled fliers, which often also hunt e.g. in cow pens.
ultrasonic callsFrequency modulated sounds, usually begin >140 kHz and end at 38 kHz. Terminal frequencies variable, 48-30 kHz.
endangerment Endangered by habitat destruction. Mosaic landscapes would benefit conservation of the species.
Red List of Germany (2020): endangered.
IUCN (2007): Least Concern.