Bats in Massachusetts

There are 9 species of bats native to Massachusetts, the most common being the Silver-haired Bat, the Big Brown Bat, and the Little Brown Bat. The largest of these is the Hoary Bat, with a wingspan ranging from 13-16 inches. The Tricolored Bat is the smallest, with a wingspan of about 8-10 inches. The Eastern Red Bat also has a small wingspan of 9 inches.

Different Types of Bats in Massachusetts

Vesper Bats (Vespertilionidae)

Big Brown Bat
Eastern Red Bat
Eastern Small-footed Bat
Hoary Bat
Indiana Bat
Little Brown Bat
Northern Long-eared Bat
Silver-haired Bat
Tricolored Bat

Places To Go Bat Watching in Massachusetts

Bats can be found in woods, caves, and abandoned buildings.

FAQ

1. Are bats protected in Massachusetts?

Yes, all 9 species of bats are under protection by law. 5 of the bats living here are endangered – the Eastern Small-footed Bat, the Little Brown Bat, the Northern Long-eared Bat, the Indiana Bat, and the Tricolored Bat.

2. Do bats hibernate in Massachusetts?

Yes, several species of bats are known to undergo hibernation in Maryland. In the state, they start to hibernate in the middle of October, which ends in mid-April. The bats that are known to do so are the Northern Long-eared Bat, the Little Brown Bat, the Indiana Bat, the Big Brown Bat, and the Tricolored Bat.

3. Which bats migrate in Massachusetts?

The Eastern Red Bat, the Hoary Bat, and the Silver-haired Bat roost in tree hollows during the summer and migrate away when it gets colder.