Large forest bat facts for kids
The large forest bat (Vespadelus darlingtoni) is a common vesper bat found in southeast Australia, Tasmania, and Lord Howe Island. These small bats are known for living in tree hollows and are quite widespread.
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About the Large Forest Bat
The first scientific description of the large forest bat was written by Glover Morrill Allen in 1933. He studied a bat specimen found by Philip Darlington in northern Queensland, Australia. This bat was collected during a special trip called the Harvard Australian Expedition (1931–1932).
What Does It Look Like?
The large forest bat has dark fur. It can be a rich brown or brownish-red color. Bats living in Tasmania might even be very dark brown or black. Their hair is long and feels a bit rough.
These bats are quite small. Their forearm (the main bone in their wing) is about 32 to 39 millimeters long. They weigh between 4 and 10 grams, which is about the same as a few paperclips!
A special feature of this bat is a small triangular shape near its mouth. The skin on its wings, called the patagium, is grey-black.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Female large forest bats usually give birth to one baby bat at a time. This typically happens during November and December.
Where Do They Live?
You can find the large forest bat in many parts of Australia. They live in Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, Queensland, and South Australia. They also live on Lord Howe Island, a small volcanic island off the coast.
These bats can live in many different places. They are found in dry and wet eucalypt forests, rainforests, and even in cold, high-altitude areas like sub-alpine and alpine habitats. They are common in areas near the Great Dividing Range.
Large forest bats often live in hollows of trees. They like to roost in groups, sometimes with up to sixty other bats. They are even found in small patches of woodland in farming areas and in towns.
The large forest bat is very common and its population is not shrinking. Scientists don't know of any major threats to them. They live in many protected areas, which helps keep them safe.
