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AUTHORS: Brett Andersen, University of Nebraska-Kearney; Keith Geluso, University of Nebraska-Kearney
ABSTRACT: In Nebraska, the Pine Ridge region presents a unique overlap in ranges for eastern and western bat species. Due to the threats associated with White Nose Syndrome (WNS) in the east that have caused catastrophic declines in populations east of the Missouri River, the overlap in ranges on the western edge of Nebraska could provide an opportunity for the fungus to reach the Rocky Mountains. Since these populations are vulnerable, learning more about these species is paramount for their long-term persistence. In summer, female bats from the genus Myotis, a group of cave roosting bats known to be most severely impacted by WNS, congregate and form maternity colonies in a variety of structures to give birth to and raise their young. If these summer roosts are damaged or destroyed, it could drastically impact local populations. In this study, we radiotagged and tracked reproductive females from four different species of Myotis to their maternity roosts. By comparing the selected roosts to surrounding trees, we could then identify parameters that each species is using to select their roosts. In turn, this information can be used for management practices in forestry to lessen the impact that logging and related activities could have on these bat populations.
