Bats in Louisiana

There are 12 species of bats that are native to Louisiana. Some common species that can be seen flying around at dusk include the Hoary Bat, the Big Brown Bat, the Little Brown Bat, the Eastern Red Bat, and the Evening Bat.

The largest ones found in Louisiana are the Hoary Bat and the Big Brown Bat, which have up to 16-inch wingspans. The smallest would be the Tricolored Bat, whose wingspan can be as small as 7 inches.

Different Types of Bats in Louisiana

Free-tailed Bats (Molossidae)

Mexican Free-tailed Bat

Vesper Bats (Vespertilionidae)

Big Brown Bat
Eastern Red Bat
Evening Bat
Hoary Bat
Little Brown Bat
Northern Yellow Bat
Rafinesque’s Big-eared Bat
Seminole Bat
Silver-haired Bat
Southeastern Myotis
Tricolored Bat

Places To Go Bat Watching in Louisiana

Most of the bats living in Louisiana can be seen in caves, woods with Spanish moss, and attics of buildings, especially brick houses.

FAQ

1. Are there any endangered bat species in Louisiana?

Yes, the Northern Long-eared Myotis is listed as endangered. The reasons behind its population decline include degradation and loss of habitat as well as disease, especially White-nose syndrome, which infects bats that hibernate in caves.

2. Is it illegal to kill bats in Louisiana?

Yes, hunting and killing any species of bat in Louisiana is illegal. This is because bats do not reproduce as quickly as other mammals, and killing them off depletes their population severely.

3. Are bats in Louisiana dangerous to humans?

While bats are known to get rabies, an infected specimen is easily identifiable. If a bat is seen during the day and moves about on the ground, it is likely infected with rabies.

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