Bats in Wyoming: identification guide and where to start looking

1. What bat species are most common in Wyoming?

The most frequently encountered bats in Wyoming are the big brown bat (*Eptesicus fuscus*), little brown bat (*Myotis lucifugus*), and the hoary bat (*Lasiurus cinereus*). The big brown bat is larger with a wingspan up to 13 inches and has a uniform brown coat. The little brown bat is smaller (wingspan 8-11 inches) with a darker face. The hoary bat is a tree-roosting species with frosted fur and a wingspan up to 16 inches.

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In Wyoming, bats sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to the most useful ID markers and likely lookalikes. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.

2. Where in Wyoming do bats typically roost and forage?

Bats gather near water sources like the North Platte River, Yellowstone Lake, and smaller streams. They also roost in caves (e.g., in the Bighorn Mountains), abandoned mines, under bridges, and in old buildings. For the best odds, visit state parks like Hot Springs State Park or the Black Hills area at dusk.

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Most misses happen when people arrive at the wrong hour or expect nonstop activity. Build around where in the state people usually notice them first, keep one backup area in mind, and use theanimal facts pageplustour planning ideasto compare what a realistic outing looks like in Wyoming. If movement slows, stay longer at one promising spot, listen for calls or watch for edge movement, and reset around weather, light, water, or feeding changes instead of jumping to a totally new area too early.

3. What is the best season and time of day for bat sightings?

Bat activity peaks from May through September, with July and August offering the warmest evenings. The ideal time is 30 minutes after sunset, when bats emerge to feed. Winter sightings are unlikely because most Wyoming bats hibernate or migrate. Start your search near water or forest edges at dusk.

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4. How can you distinguish Wyoming's bats from lookalikes?

The big brown bat is often confused with the little brown bat. Look at size: big brown bats are noticeably larger. Also check the ears: big brown bats have short, rounded ears that do not extend beyond the nose when folded; little brown bats have longer, more pointed ears. The hoary bat's frosty, white-tipped fur is unique. Flight pattern also helps: big brown bats fly slowly and straight, while little brown bats are more erratic.

5. What are the most useful field marks for identifying Wyoming bats?

Key field marks include fur color (uniform brown for big brown, darker brown for little brown, frosted for hoary), ear shape (short and rounded vs. long and pointed), and nose shape (some have a distinctive keel or scoop). Wing shape also varies: long, narrow wings indicate fast flyers, while broad wings suggest slower, more maneuverable flight. Use a good pair of binoculars and a field guide.

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6. Are there any endangered bat species in Wyoming?

The northern long-eared bat (*Myotis septentrionalis*) is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act and may occur in Wyoming. The Indiana bat (*Myotis sodalis*) is endangered but less common here. White-nose syndrome has affected bat populations, so avoid disturbing roosts. If you spot a flagged species, report it to Wyoming Game and Fish.

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