Velvety myotis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Velvety myotis |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Myotis
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| Species: |
simus
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| Synonyms | |
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Myotis sima |
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The velvety myotis (Myotis simus) is a special type of vesper bat found in South America. These bats get their name from their soft, velvety fur. They are small and live near water, often flying over rivers to catch insects.
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About the Velvety Myotis
The velvety myotis is a small bat. It measures about 8 to 9 centimeters (around 3 to 3.5 inches) long. It usually weighs between 5 and 11 grams, which is about the same as a few paper clips!
This bat has short, soft, orange-brown fur. Its ears and wing membranes are black and do not have any hair. The ears are short and shaped like triangles, with a pointy part called a tragus inside.
You can tell a velvety myotis apart from other bats in its group by its unique fur. It also has bigger canine teeth and a special shape to its wing membrane. Plus, the edge of its tail membrane has no fur.
Where Velvety Myotis Live
You can find the velvety myotis in many parts of South America. They live in northern and western Brazil, southern Colombia, and eastern Ecuador and Peru. They are also found in Bolivia, Paraguay, and northwestern Argentina.
These bats prefer to live in lowland forests and grassy areas called savannahs. They always stay close to fresh water, like rivers or lakes. Scientists do not currently recognize different types of velvety myotis, though some have suggested a possible new type in Bolivia.
Velvety Myotis Life and Habits
The velvety myotis loves to eat insects. Their diet includes beetles, bugs, moths, and flies. They are very good at catching these insects while flying low over water. This is why you often find them near rivers or in areas that flood.
During the day, these bats rest in safe places. They might sleep inside hollow trees or in burrows made by other animals. Sometimes, they even roost under the thatched roofs of buildings in local villages.
Interestingly, velvety myotis bats are often seen roosting with another type of bat called the lesser bulldog bat. Even though they are not related, they like similar places to live.
Reproduction and Young
Scientists do not know much about how velvety myotis bats reproduce. However, like most bats, they usually give birth to just one baby at a time. Pregnant female bats have been found between September and March. This suggests that they might have their babies during these months.
See also
In Spanish: Myotis simus para niños
