Gray Bat: Myotis grisescens Genus/Species: Myotis grisescens
Common Name: Gray bat Federal Status: Endangered FL Status:
Federally-designated Endangered FNAI Ranks: G3/S1 (Globally:
Rare/State: Critically Imperiled) IUCN Status: NT (Near
Threatened) The gray bat can reach a body length of 3.5 inches
(8.9 centimeters), a wingspan of 9-11 inches (22.9-27.9
centimeters) and a forearm length of 1.8 inches (4.6
centimeters). Although typically gray, the fur can turn to a
reddish-brown color during the summer (Florida Natural Areas
Inventory 2001, USFWS Species Profile, n.d.). Gray bats also
have a calcar (spur of cartilage) on their foot, which is used
for stability during flight. The diet of the gray bat primarily
consists of insects, including moths and beetles. Bats are
nocturnal hunters, typically remaining inactive throughout the
day and flying at night to hunt. During extended periods of
inactivity, bats go into a state of reduced activity called
torpor. During torpor, they decrease their heart rate and body