Bats in Mississippi

There are 14 bats that can be found in the state of Mississippi. The largest of these is the Hoary Bat, with a wingspan that reaches up to 16 inches, while the Tricolored Bat is the smallest, with a wingspan ranging between 8 and 10 inches. The Big Brown Bat is the most common in Mississippi and the species people are most likely to encounter as it has been known to roost in the attics of human dwellings.

Different Types of Bats in Mississippi

Free-tailed Bats (Molossidae)

Mexican Free-tailed Bat

Vesper Bats (Vespertilionidae),

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

Places To Go Bat Watching in Mississippi

In Mississippi, bats can be seen in caves, woods, and abandoned buildings.

FAQ

1. Are bats protected in Mississippi?

Bats are protected in the state, and killing them is illegal. The Indiana Bat and Gray Bat are federally endangered. At the same time, the Northern Long-eared Bat is listed as threatened on a federal level. All other bats are also protected under “non-game wildlife.”

2. Are bats dangerous to humans?

Yes, bats are the most likely animals to spread rabies to humans. The best way to identify whether a bat is rabid is to see if the bat is active during the day. Under normal circumstances, bats only move about after dusk; if a bat is visible in daylight, it is likely to be infected with rabies.