Mexican free-tailed bat

The Mexican free-tailed bat, Tadarida brasiliensis, is a medium-sized, insect eating mammal native to the Americas.  This bat is especially important for insect control.  One bat can eat up to 600 insects per hour which can add up to 10,000-30,000 pounds of insects per colony.

Mexican free-tailed bats are thought to be the most populous mammal in North America and, although not on the Endangered Species List, it is a Species of Special Concern in Utah due to declines in populations.  Because there are relatively few colonies and free-tailed bats roost in colonies of millions, population declines due to habitat destruction and human interference can be catastrophic.  The most alarming declines have been largely blamed on the use of pesticides. 

Key roost habitat protection is the most effective way we can protect the population of these beneficial, insect-eating bats.  We must also ensure that people are educated about bats and foster understanding of the key role they play in our ecosystem.

Follow Advocates for the West via our informative e-blasts. Scroll down to sign up today!

Photos from top:  Tadarida brasiliensis, courtesy of the Utah Department of Natural Resources.  Bats of Colorado, courtesy of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources.