Description: A medium-sized bat (wingspread: 30 cm [12 in.]; mass:
7 - 11 g [0.25 - 0.40 oz]), nearly black with silver-tipped hairs on the
dorsum giving it a frosted appearance. Tail membrane with fairly thick
fur on dorsal surface. Ears short, rounded, and naked. Flies fairly high,
slow, and straight. No other species of bat likely to be found in southern
Nevada has black fur with silver-tipped hairs. Silver-haired bats may be
solitary or occur in small groups. Uses multiple roost sites and switch
frequently. Mates in the fall; usually two offspring born in early summer.
Diet: Forages above open forest, streams, ponds, and open brushy
areas in the early evening. Feeds on moths and other soft-bodied insects.
Habitat: In summer, found in mixed conifer, pinyon-juniper, and high
elevation riparian habitats below 2,750 m (9,000 ft); during spring and fall
found at the lower elevations of its habitat. Roosts in hollow trees,
dead trees, and under bark. Females may use abandoned woodpecker
holes for maternity roosts. During winter, roosts in rock crevices, caves,
and buildings; probably migrates south.
Range: Occurs throughout southern Canada, the U.S., and northern
Mexico. Widely distributed and locally common in Nevada. Migrates
northward in the spring and is a summer resident in mountain forests.