Virginia Opossum

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Didelphis virginiana (Virginia Opossum)

Family: Opossum (Didelphidae) Size: Total Length: 2.5 feet (76 centimeters) Tail Length: 1 foot (30.48 centimeters) Weight: 8-13.2 pounds (4-6 kilograms) Description: Greyish-white fur that is long and dense. Has a long, pointed face with whiskers. Tail is long and has very little fur.[1] Similar Species: Opossums are characterized by their long tail, which can act like a third appendage when hanging from a tree. Range: The opossum can be found as far north as the Canadian border, and as far south as Costa Rica. It can be found throughout the United States. Habitat: Opossum do not have a specific habitat. They can be found in cities and rural areas. They populate wooded areas along creeks and lakes. Diet: Opossum are omnivores. They eat grass and fruit as well as mice, worms, and chickens. They are scavengers and can often be found by road kill or garbage cans and dumpsters.[2] Activity: Opossum do not migrate or have a specific territory. They are nocturnal. Reproduction: Gestation period is 12-13 days from the months of February to July. The young are as small as honeybees when they are born. After birth they crawl into the females pouch, where they continue to develop and start to nurse. Litter sizes can be as large as 20, though half do not survive. They leave their mother 90-105 days after birth.[3] Lifespan: 2-3 years

Baby Opossum

1. ↑ Krause, W. J.; Krause, W. A. (2006), The Opossum: Its Amazing Story, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri: Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine 
2. ↑ National Geographic (2012), Opossum, http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/opossum/, retrieved 9-23-12 
3. ↑ National Geographic (2012), Opossum, http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/opossum/, retrieved 9-23-12 

American Beaver

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Castor canadensis (American Beaver)

Family: Beaver Size: The total length of the American Beaver is 3-4 feet (1000-1200mm). Its average tail length is 10-13 inches (258-325mm).[1] The average weight is 40-50 pounds average (18.1-22.7 Kg); may be up to 90 pounds (40.8 Kg).[2] Description: This species is a large rodent with yellow-brown to black fur. Young beavers have black fur that lightens with age. The under fur is dense while the guard hair is long and coarse. The American Beaver has large teeth and a large, flat, scaled, and hairless tail. The hind feet are webbed for swimming and the front feet are small. All of the feet have claws.[1] Similar Species: The American Beaver is the largest rodent in North America. Its large teeth and large, flat tail distinguish it from other similar species. [2] Range: The American Beaver is generally found throughout North America. The only exceptions are in the peninsula of Florida, the southwest deserts of the United States, and the Arctic Circle.[3] Habitat: This species lives near lakes, ponds, and streams. They must be near trees for building and a food and water source. American Beavers often reconstruct their habitat to create dams.[3] Diet: The American beaver is a herbivore. This species will eat most types of plants that surround their habitat including leaves, twigs, bark of trees, and aquatic plants. Their diet varies among seasons. In the summer, American Beavers eat mostly willow leaves and twigs and herbaceous vegetation. In the fall, they store lots of branches and bark to eat in the winter. [1] Activity: During the spring, summer, and fall the American Beaver is active about 12 hours a day. They are considered to be nocturnal and diurnal because they are active during parts of the day and night. Beavers activity occurs from early evening until early morning. During the day, they rest in their homes.[1] Reproduction: American Beavers reproduce only once per year producing a litter of 3-4. They reach sexual maturity around 1 1/2 years old which means they breed during their second winter. Breeding usually occurs from January to February with an average gestation of 107 days. Babies are usually born between May and June although this may vary between February and November.[1] Lifespan: The average American Beaver lives for twelve years.[2] Notes: The American Beaver has adapted to have its ears and nose close when going underwater. They may stay under water up to 20 minutes at a time. Babies will swim under water for the first time on the day they are born. Beavers are active woodcutters and dam builders. When they overpopulate an area, they build too many dams which cause floods for the area. Beavers are listed under least concern on the IUCN Red List.

American Beaver

1. 1 2 3 4 5 Jenkins, S; Busher, P (1979), "Castor Canadensis", Mammalian Species 120: 1–8, http://www.science.smith.edu/msi/pdf/i0076-3519-120-01-0001.pdf, retrieved October 4, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (2012), Beaver, http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/mammals/beaver.html, retrieved October 4, 2012 
3. 1 2 Linzey, A; NatureServe; Hammerson, G; Cannings, S (2011), Castor Canadensis, http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/summary/4003/0, retrieved October 9, 2012 

Woodchuck

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Marmota monax (Woodchuck)

Family: Squirrel (Sciuridae) Size: Woodchucks weigh anywhere from 4 to 13 lbs (2-6 kg), and range from 16 to 27 inches (415-675 mm) in total length. Their tail length ranges from 4 to 6 inches (100-160 mm) in length.[1] Description: Woodchucks are stout in appearance. Their fur color varies greatly, but ranges from gray to cinnamon to dark brown. They have white-tipped guard hairs giving them a grizzled appearance. Their paws are typically black to dark down. They have a short bushy tail that is often black or dark brown. The species also has white teeth and rounded ears.[1] Similar Species: Unlike most rodents, woodchucks have white teeth. Their paws are also black, unlike a subspecies that has pink.[1] Range: The woodchuck ranges from central Alaska, east through Canada south of the northwest territories; in the eastern United States south to Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, and Arkansas; in the western United States absent from the Great Plains, extending down to northern Idaho.[2] Habitat: The woodchuck is typically found in farmlands, small woodlots, forests, fields, pastures, and hedgerows. It constructs its dens in well-drained soils. They have separate dens for the winter and summer. Winter dens are located near protective cover, while summer dens are located near food sources.[1][2] Diet: Woodchucks are primarily herbivores, eating a wide variety of herbs, grasses, leaves, bark, and nuts. They also eat insects and mollusks.[1][2] Activity: Woodchucks are diurnal. They feed twice daily during the summer, and mate soon after hibernation. Generally, woodchucks hibernate, however in the southern range, they have been known to remain active throughout the entire year due to a warmer climate.[1] Reproduction: The woodchuck’s breeding season extends from early March to mid-April. gestation lasts 31-32 days. Their litter size varies from 2-6, with an average litter size of 4 per year. The young become independent after two months, and sexually mature in one year.[1][2] Lifespan: Woodchucks live 4 to 6 years in the wild.[1] Notes: Woodchucks are non-social animals. They have a high tendency to be territorial, and use secretions from their facial and anal glands to designate territorial boundaries. Their sight is used to spot predators and make visual threats to other species. Woodchucks avoid predators by staying elevated in trees and constantly checking their surroundings while feeding. They often use their teeth to defend themselves. Known predators include hawks, snakes, bobcats, black bears, lynx, foxes, wolves, and coyotes.[1] Woodchucks have both positive and negative economic importance for Humans. The positive economic importance for humans is that they have been used in biomedical research to investigate hepatitis B, obesity, energy balance, the endocrine system, reproduction, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and neoplastic disease. The negative economic importance for humans is that they are known to destroy farmlands, garden, and pastures.[1] There are currently no major threats to this species according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.[2]

Woodchuck

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Tobias, C. (2011), versity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Marmota_monax/ ADW: Marmota monax: INFORMATION, http://animaldi versity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Marmota_monax/, retrieved October 7, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 4 5 Linzey, A.V.; Cannings, S. (2008), Marmota monax (Woodchuck), http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/42458/0, retrieved October 7, 2012 

Franklin's Ground Squirrel

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Spermophilus franklinii[1] (Franklin's Ground Squirrel)

Family: Squirrel (Sciuridae) [1] Size: Length: Ranges from 14-16 inches (355-410 mm). Average is 14.6 inches (371 mm). Average Weight: Males is 12.3-33.5 oz. (350-950 g). Females is 12-26.8 oz. (340-760 g).[2] Description: Dark brownish grey fur speckled with pale and dark flecks. Fur on sides of body is pale. Tail is blackish mixed with pale flecks. Head is typically grayer than the rest of their body.[3] Similar Species: Franklin’s Ground Squirrel is similar to the Gray Tree Squirrel except that Franklin’s Ground Squirrel is smaller and has shorter ears and tail.[4] Range: Occurs in the United States and Canada. From Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois northward to Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.[3] Habitat: Tall, dense cover grasses, shrubs, and small trees. Tallgrass and mid-grass prairie. Occupy prairie, woodland edges, forest openings, thickets, and bog borders. Avoid short grass.[5] Agriculture suitable habitats include fence rows to old fields,[4] cemetery prairies, and ditch banks.[5] Diet: Most carnivorous of ground squirrels. Green plants, seeds, fruit, insects, amphibians, bird eggs, young birds and mammals, and carrion.[5] Activity: It is Diurnal.[5] Begins hibernation by late September.[3] Emerge from hibernation during April.[5] Reproduction: Breeding starts immediately after hibernation and lasts until early June. Gestation lasts 28 days.[1] Litter size is 5-11, average is 7. One litter per year. Weaned in 40 days.[3] Born naked and blind. Fully furred after 16 days. Eyes open after 18-20 days.[1] Lifespan: Females 4-5 years. Males 1-2 years.[1]

Cute little Franklin's Ground Squirrel eating.

1. 1 2 3 4 5 Ostroff, A. C.; Finck, E. J. (2003), "Spermophilus franklinii", The American Society of Mammalogists, http://www.science.smith.edu/departments/Biology/VHAYSSEN/msi/pdf/724_Spermophilus_franklinii.pdf, retrieved September 24, 2012 
2. ↑ "North American Mammals:Spermophilusfranklinii", Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History NMNH, http://www.mnh.si.edu/mna/image_info.cfm?species_id=337, retrieved September 24, 2012 
3. 1 2 3 4 Spermophilus franklinii, 2008, http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/41787/0, retrieved September 24, 2012 
4. 1 2 Franklin's Ground Squirrel, http://www.chiwaukee.org/fauna/fgsquirrel.htm, retrieved September 24, 2012 
5. 1 2 3 4 5 Hofmann, J. E. (1999), INHS Reports: Franklin's Ground Squirrel: An Increasingly Rare Prairie Mammal, Illinois Natural History Survey - University of Illinois, http://www.inhs.uiuc.edu/inhsreports/jan-feb99/franklin.html, retrieved September 24, 2012 

Richardson's ground squirrel

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Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel

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Spermophilus tridecemlineatus (Thirteen Lined Ground Squirrel)

Family: Sciuridae Size: Weighing around 8 oz (227 g), they are a smaller, more slender squirrel with a body length around 10 inches (25 cm) along with a 3 inch tail (8 cm).[1] Description: Known for having small ears, elongated bodies, and thirteen stripes down their back from the nape of the neck extending down through the tail. These stripes alternate from a dark brown or black color to a light tan or white and also turn into spots along their back. Their front paws only have four toes with very long claws but the back feet have five toes with normal claws. Their long claws are used for digging along with large cheeks to carry food.[1] Similar Species: Similar species to the thirteen lined ground squirrel are the Richardson’s Ground Squirrel and the Wyoming Ground Squirrel. They can be differentiated by their small ears, long bodies, and the thirteen strips along their backs.[1] Range: Home to central North America, it has extended its range over the past two centuries northward and eastward. Currently, they spread from east of Ohio to west of Montana and Arizona.[1] Habitat: Because they enjoy burrowing, open areas with short grass and well drained soil are common areas to live. Although it used to be mostly prairies, cemeteries, golf courses, and other well groomed areas are now considered home for these gophers.[1] Diet: Being omnivorous, 50% of the food eaten are animal matter such as insects, bugs, mice, birds, and other small animals. Also, they consume seeds from weeds and available crop species. It will also eat grass, leaves and clovers, flowers, vegetables, fruits, and roots. These animals hardly ever drink water or other liquids and depend on the food that they eat to contain water for hydration.[1][2] Activity: These ground squirrels come up when the sun is up and the earth is warm but return to their burrows before sundown. Coming out of their burrow is rare unless the sun is out. They like the warmth of their burrow when it is overcast and rainy. When they first come out of the burrow, you will often see the ground squirrel stand on its hind legs to survey the ground around them to check for predators. These animals begin hibernation anywhere from September to late October depending on their region and come up anytime in late January to March. Males usually begin and end hibernation earlier than females do.[1] Reproduction: Within two weeks after hibernation, the Thirteen Lined Ground Squirrel begins breeding. On average, only one litter per female is born per year. Averaging around eight to ten babies per liter, they are born hairless and blind with a gestation period of around 28 days. After these 28 days are over, the animal is ready to start weaning off of their mother and start living on their own. Sexual maturity for both males and females is around nine months after birth.[1] Lifespan: : An estimated 90% of newborn ground squirrels are killed by predators. If the squirrel is fortunate enough to survive it usually only lives around two years.[1] Notes: The thirteen lined ground squirrels are not colonizing animals and there are only 1 to 20 of these animals per acre but this changes per season. Also, these animals hibernate and allow their heart rates to drop from their normal 200 beats per minute to around 20 beats per minute keeping their body temperatures just slightly above freezing. Not only do they let their heart rates drop during hibernation but they also lose almost 1/3 of their body weight during this time. These little animals also have a great sense of vision, touch, and smell. They use these sounds and secretions to communicate. Also, this species greet each other by touching noses and lips.[1]

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Petrella, S. (1999), Spermophilus Tridecemlineatus, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Spermophilus_tridecemlineatus/, retrieved October 5, 2012 
2. ↑ Dolbeer, R. (2005), Thirteen Lined Ground Squirrel and Thier Control, http://icwdm.org/handbook/rodents/13linedgroundsquirrel.asp, retrieved October 5, 2012 

Eastern Chipmunk

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Tamias striatus (Eastern Chipmunk)

Family: Sciuridae (Squirrel) Size: Total Length: 8.5-11.2 inches (215-285mm) Tail Length: 2.8-4 inches (72-101mm) Weight: 2.8-5.3 oz. (80-150g) Description: 5 black stripes over red-brown, white, and grey stripes on back. Cream belly, white “eyeliner” stripes, 4 toes on front paws & 5 toes on back paws,[1] red-brown tail brown on tip [2] Similar Species: The Least Chipmunk (Tamias minimus) has similar striping patterns and toes, but is quite a bit smaller than the Eastern Chipmunk. Range: The Eastern Chipmunk ranges from Eastern and Central United States (as far south as Louisiana and Florida) and Southeastern Canada, including Nova Scotia. Habitat: Eastern Chipmunks live in burrows in deciduous forest or woodland edge, but they are also able to survive in urban environments .[3] The home territory of an Eastern Chipmunk is usually less than 100 yards. Diet: The Eastern Chipmunk eats nuts, acorns, seeds, mushrooms, corn, and sometimes berries, slugs, and snails. They collect up to 8 pounds of food for eating in winter. Activity: Chipmunks run from burrow to collect food. They stuff and carry food in cheek pouches, as well as soil when digging burrows.[3] They are diurnal and hibernate. Reproduction: Chipmunks call for mating season is a short “chip, chip, chip.” Mating is in March and again the latter half of June–July. Females may bite dominant male as form of rejection. Gestation is 31-32 days, and litters average 4-5. The babies are furless at birth and open eyes after the first month. Lifespan: Eastern Chipmunks live 1-3 years, and up to 8 years in captivity. Notes: They wake from hibernation and torpor to eat some and then return to sleep. (Torpor is an advanced stage of hibernation where about 75% of the chipmunk’s functions cease. This decreases energy usage, but can cause temporary brain damage.[3])

Eastern Chipmunk

1. ↑ Anderson, R.; Stephens, J. (2002), "Tamias striatus", Animal Diversity Web, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Tamias_striatus 
2. ↑ Whitaker, J.O (1980), A.A.Knopf, ed., Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus) 
3. 1 2 3 Snyder, D. P. (1982), "Tamias striatus", Mammalian Species 168: 1–8, http://www.science.smith.edu/msi/ 

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Least Chipmunk

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Tamias Minimus (Least Chipmunk)

Family: Sciuridae Size: Range mass: 1.48oz-1.87oz (42g-53g) Range length: 7.28in-8.74in (185mm-222mm) Range length of tail: 81mm-95mm Description: The least chipmunk is the smallest of all the chipmunks. In some of the chipmunk population the female are bigger than the male. They have three dark and two light stripes on the face, with five dark and four light stripes along the sides which the middle strip runs all the way to the tail. Their fur colors are orangish-brown and grayish-white. The tail is long and bushy with a pale brown color to it. Habitat: They live throughout North America from the Rocky Mountain regions to the western Great Plains. They are also found throughout central and western Canada, and in the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan. They prefer more open areas like forest edges and the openings. Some common places are near rock cliffs, river bluffs and open pine stands. The least chipmunk is the most widespread North American chipmunk, both in their geographic range and habitats (Harris, 1999). Diet: The least chipmunks eat a variety of food which their diet consist of seeds, nuts, berries, fruits, grasses, fungi, snails, insects and possibly some small birds or mammals (Schlimme, 2000). These chipmunks spend most of their time from April through October foraging. Their cheek pouches allow them to carry food items back to their nests and are either eaten or store. They feed on ground, in shrubs or up in the trees and store food underground to use during winter (Harris, 1999). Activity: When it’s cold the least chipmunks will climb on trees to keep themselves warm in the sun. They are adept climbers and some of them will make nest high above grounds where their nest are built seasonally. These least chipmunks are most active between the month of April and October. For the summer, their nest will be made from leaves and bark that are in rotting logs and tree cavities. As the winter, their nest will be underground burrows which consist of dried grass, bark, fur, feathers and soft vegetation. Hibernation for the least chipmunks is not as deep as compare to ground squirrels (Schlimme, 2000). Hibernation occurs from October to April and the male enter hibernation first (Harris, 1999). During these winter months and season they often awake to snack on stored food. They are not social except during mating season and during the time they are rearing young. But, when provisioned by humans then they are remarkably tolerant of conspecifics (Schlimme, 2000). Reproduction: The males come out from hibernation before the females do and starts to get involve in competition for mates. Individual are sexually mature by 10 months. The mating season starts in April when females begin to come out of hibernation. Gestation usually last about 28-30 days for the least chipmunks (Harris, 1999). Litter size varies between 2 to 6 young and during a breeding season normally there is only a single litter of off springs but are capable of a second litter if the first one is lost. Young are born from April through May and will appear above ground around June to early July (Harris, 1999). Newborns are naked with a pink color, are 50 mm in length and average about 2.25 g. After the 28th days, their eyes will open and fur will not be fully grown until by the 40th day. Some may move the newborn to tree nest after they begin to activity out of the nest (Harris, 1999). As for lactation it’ll last about 60 days and the newborns will be with their mother for up to six weeks or more. The female will choose their nests for nursery while still pregnant. They are often lines with grass and usually located in stumps, under logs, in brush piles, or even rock piles. The location or position of the chosen nest for nursery will be protected from rainfall and runoff for the health and comfort of the newborns after birth. The role of males in the care for off springs is not certain but some indications are that males may help defend the home range of female with off springs, help maintain the nursery nest, and also bring food. (Schlimme, 2000). Lifespan: The lifespan of these animals has not been reported but are known to be shorter than the Eastern chipmunks, which can live up to 11 years (Schlimme, 2000).

Red Squirrel

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Sciurus vulgaris (Red Squirrel)

Family: Squirrel Size: Total length: 7.5-9 Inches (19-23 cm) Tail length: 6-8 Inches (15-20 cm) Weight: 8.8-12 oz (250-340 g) [1] Description: Smallest squirrel in North America besides the flying squirrel. They are brownish-red in color with a white underbody and a black stripe to separate the two colors. Tail is also brownish-red in color, but has grey with white flecks underneath. Have prominent white eye ring.[2] Similar Species: In addition to its very small size, the red squirrel has a reddish coat and a white eye ring that set it apart from other squirrels. They also have distinguished ear tufts [2] Range: The red squirrel ranges across northern North America. They are found as far north as Alaska and across Canada. The squirrel is found all the way into northern Georgia, Arizona, and New Mexico.[3] Habitat: This species prefers coniferous and mixed forests. It can also be found in hedgerows and deciduous forests. They prefer to nest in tree cavities, but also constructs leaf nests and uses ground burrows. The main factor of the squirrels habitat is the amount of food available.[4] Diet: The red squirrel is omnivorous, but is primarily herbivorous. Their diet consists of seeds, conifer cones, nuts, fruits while occasionally feeding on invertebrates and small vertebrates.[3] Activity: A diurnal animal that is active throughout the year. They are usually active the two hours after sunrise and before sunset for the purpose of feeding or social activity. Young squirrels tend be more active during the day for feeding. Red squirrels can be active at night, but it is usually caused by weather conditions. In addition, during the fall season there is a heavier focus on feeding which causes the squirrels to be more active.[4] Reproduction: Red squirrels are sexually mature around one year old. Breeding season is from February to midsummer. Females are in estrus for less than a day, but may be solicited by several males. This can lead to breeding chases for several hours. Females usually have one litter a year, but occasionally have two litters. They will have 3-5 young per litter after a 35 day gestation period. The young are nursed for about 45 days and then leave the nest. They may remain with their mother after that for another several weeks or a month before going out on their own.[2] Lifespan: Average life expectancy is about three years.[2] They have been known to live as long as 9 years in some cases. Predation can greatly impact the life expectancy of red squirrels in a range.[4] Notes: insert notes

Red Squirrel

1. ↑ "North American Mammals", Smithsonian-National Museum of Natural, http://www.mnh.si.edu/mna/image_info.cfm?species_id=400, retrieved October 4, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 4 Koprowski, John, "The Natural History of the Mount Graham Red Squirrel Geographical", University of Arizona, http://www.ag.arizona.edu/research/redsquirrel/mgrs-nathistory.html, retrieved October 5, 2012 
3. 1 2 Layne, James (1954), "The Biology of the Red Squirrel in Central New York", Ecological Monographs, http://www.jstor.org/stable/10.2307/1948465, retrieved October 3, 2012 
4. 1 2 3 Linzey, A.V. (2008), "Tamiasciurus hudsonicus", IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/42587/0, retrieved October 4, 2012 

Eastern Fox Squirrel

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Sciurus niger (Eastern Fox Squirrel)

Family: Sciuridae Size: The length of an eastern fox squirrel 17-27 inches (431.8-685.8mm) with a tail length of 10 inches long.[1] It weighs from 1-2 pounds (.45-.91kg) [2] Description: Eastern fox squirrel is a pretty large size squirrel with a long furry tail. The colors of their fur are black and silver-grey but mostly seen in reddish-brown. The belly is lighter colored in reddish-orange bellies and their nose, ears, and teeth are colored white. This species likes to sit on an upright position when peaking, eating, and observing. Eastern fox squirrels can also climb trees very well because of its sharp claws and masculine body.[3] Similar Species: This specie is similar to eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinesis) but has a bigger body.[3] Range: These eastern fox squirrels live all over eastern and central United States, southern Canada, and northeastern Mexico.[1] As for Minnesota, they are sighted in all of Minnesota forests. Habitat: Eastern fox squirrels only likes to live by wide and tall grasslands, forests (trees like oak trees and pine trees for nesting and food), and swamps. Diet: All year long, they like to eat plants such as flowers and grasses. Eastern fox squirrels also like to eat fruits, nuts, and seeds. Not only that, they like to eat insects and rarely birds.[1] [3] Activity: Eastern fox squirrels do not hibernate during the winter or any other season. They like to sleep at night and become active in the morning and around the late afternoons. When they are awake, they climb trees, eat, look for food, and bury nuts underground for winter. Reproduction: Eastern fox squirrels can mate all year long but most mate twice; usually during the spring and winter seasons. Male eastern fox squirrels start mating when they are 10-11 months old.[3] Pregnant females tend to give birth after 44 days and have about 1-6 babies but 1-3 only makes it alive. Female eastern fox squirrels can have up to two litters per year too. After 3 months of age, the babies can pretty much explore on their own lives. [1] Lifespan: For this specie, they are known to live up to 18 years of life but rarely make adulthood. Therefore, they usually live for 4-8 years in average.[1] Notes: Eastern fox squirrels have a tail that is 40% as long as its body (from tip of nose to start of tail). Hunters hunt these species and other squirrels for food. They are usually hunted during the early fall seasons in state forests throughout Minnesota.

Eastern Fox Squirrel

1. 1 2 3 4 5 Fahey, Bridget, Fox Squirrel, http://www.biokids.umich.edu/critters/Sciurus_niger/, retrieved October 7, 2012 
2. ↑ Mason, Jim (2003), Fox Squirrel, http://www.gpnc.org/fox.htm, retrieved October 7, 2012 
3. 1 2 3 4 Garst, Warren (1922), Eastern fox squirrel standing on sand, http://digitool.library.colostate.edu/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=132848, retrieved October 7, 2012 

Eastern Gray Squirrel

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Sciuris carolinensis (Eastern Grey Squirrel)

Family: Sciuridae Size: Weight is usually 11.9-26.4 oz (338-750g). Length is 15-20.7 in. (380-525mm). Description: Medium sized tree squirrel. No differences in size or color between sexes. Back of squirrel ranges from grey to cinnamon color. Front is light grey.[1] Similar Species: Most differentiable feature between other similar squirrels is its long bushy tail.[2] Range: Ranges from just west of Mississippi River through eastern states of the United States and up into Canada. Also live in Italy, Scotland, England and Ireland. Habitat: Large woodlands with trees that produce winter storage such as acorns or walnuts. Diet: Mainly nuts, buds, and flowers. Will eat farm crops such as corn or wheat, especially during winter. May also eat frogs, eggs, and insects. Activity: The eastern grey squirrel does not hibernate. It is most active in summer 2 hours after sunrise and 2-5 hours before sunset to avoid overheating in the sun.[1] Reproduction: There are 2 breeding seasons; one in first 2 months of the year, second in the middle 2 months of year. Gestation is 40 days. Many males may mate with one female. Once mated, the male has no role in rearing offspring. Average litter size of 3. Female will generally give birth to cavity prepared in tree. Newborn have no fur and develop the fur by 4 weeks. At 12 weeks, the young will be adult size and independent. Lifespan: Average of 6 or less years[2] Notes: The eastern grey squirrel was an important source of food for both the colonists and Native Americans and is still eaten by some people today. Squirrels can be a household pest by getting into bird feeders and can be destructive to property. Squirrels will either live permanently in a hollowed out tree or build a temporary nest made of twigs and leaves in the notch of tree branches. The eastern grey squirrel is hunted by many animals including hawks, coyotes, bobcats, and other carnivores. They are hard to catch because of their quickness and will produce a shriek to warn others of danger when a predator is near. They will eat almost anything including nuts, berries, field crops, and have even been known to be cannibalistic. They primarily live in large areas of heavily wooded areas. Communication between squirrels is translated through twitches and posture. The sense of smell is important to the eastern grey squirrel, allowing them to sense stress and the reproductive state of other squirrels. The eastern grey squirrel is important to its ecosystem, being known for spreading seeds of multiple beneficial plants. They are also the prey to many carnivores and prey on nuts and small animals as well.[1]

Eastern Gray Squirrel, Sciuris carolinensis

1. 1 2 3 Lawniczak , M. (2002), Animal diversity webe, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Sciurus_carolinensis.html, retrieved October 1, 2012 
2. 1 2 Hamilton , H. (1990), Hinterland, http://www.hww.ca/en/species/mammals/eastern-grey-squirrel.html, retrieved October 1, 2012 

Northern Flying Squirrel

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Glaucomys sabrinus (Northern Flying Squirrel)

Family: Sciuridae Size: Total Length: 10.24 in. (260 mm.). Tail Length: 8.19 in. (208 mm.).[1] Weight: 2-3 oz. (56.7-85.05 g.) [2] Description: The Northern Flying Squirrel has dense fur, olive-brown above and white below.[1] It also has large brown eyes. Its tail is uniformly gray with a dark tip.[2] The tail is also flat for aerial control. The Northern Flying Squirrel has a membrane, called a patagium, which stretches from the front to the hind limbs.[3] Similar Species: The Northern Flying Squirrel is similar in appearance to the Southern Flying Squirrel, but larger and more robust. The Southern Flying Squirrel has a tail that is paler below and has a darker tip than The Northern Flying Squirrel.[1] Range: Continuous across North America through central Canada.[1] Habitat: Northern Flying Squirrels inhabit cool and moist forests near swamps or streams. Mixed coniferous-deciduous forests are ideal habitats for the species.[1] In addition, they can be found to nest in tree hollows or leaf nests.[2] Diet: Their diet is omnivorous [4] , characteristic of most squirrels' diets.[5] Activity: They have a nocturnal activity pattern in the late summer, leaving the nest shortly after sundown and returning within two hours. They do not hibernate, remaining active during the winter months.[1] Reproduction: Mates in late March through May. Gestation period of 37-42 days. Typical litter size of 2-4 (2-3 litters per year). Newborns weigh .18 oz. (5-6 g.) and are 2.76 in. (70mm) in length. Weaned at 2 months.[1] Lifespan: 4 years in the wild. 13 years in captivity.[5] Notes: The Northern Flying Squirrel has a long tail, up to 80% of its body length. It has no evident sexual dimorphism. Common predators include Barn Owls (Tylo alba), Great Horned Owls (Bubo virginianus), Red-tailed Hawks (Butao jamaicensis), and House Cats (Felis catus). Female Northern Flying Squirrels raise the young, with no help from male. Northern Flying Squirrels are social and often share nests during the winter. The Northern Flying Squirrel actually does not fly; it glides with glide lengths averages of 16.6 ft. (19.7 m.). They also help disperse conifer seeds. The Northern Flying Squirrel is usually clumsy on the ground and will occasionally get its patagium tangled in barbed wire and die.[1]

Northern Flying Squirrel Glaucomys sabrinus

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Wells-Gosling, Heaney, N., L.R. (1984), Glaucomys sabrinus, pp. 1–8 
2. 1 2 3 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (2012), Glaucomys sabrinus 
3. ↑ Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (2012), Glaucomys sabrinus 
4. ↑ Riebe, j. (2004), Glaucomys sabrinus 
5. 1 2 Malamuth, Mulheisen, E., M. (1999) 

Southern Flying Squirrel

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Glaucomys volans (Southern Flying Squirrel)

Family: Sciuridae[1] Size: Length: 8.3 to 10.1 inches (21.1 to 25.7 cm) Tail Length: 3.1 to 4.7 inches (7.9 to 12 cm) Weight: 2.3 ounces (65.2 grams)[1] Description: Grayish-brown coat on the top of its body with a creamy white underside, large eyes that help the species see at night, gliding membrane that is a flap of loose skin from its wrist to its ankle that gives it the ability to glide through the air.[1][2] Similar Species: Similar in characteristics to its cousin, the tree squirrel, gliding membrane is their differentiating trait.[2] Range: Every state east of Texas including Minnesota, north to Quebec and Nova Scotia Canada and as far south as northwestern Mexico to Honduras.[3] Habitat: In woodlands that are both conifer and deciduous forests and in suburbs preferring trees such as maple, hickory, oak, popular, and beech for their seeds and uses old woodpecker holes or a natural cavity as their nest sites.[1] Diet: Omnivores consuming nuts, acorns, seeds, berries, fruit, moths, junbugs, eggs, young birds, young mice, fungus, bark, and leaf buds.[1][4] Activity: Nocturnal gliding to avoid predators, often spotted in pairs or during winter hibernation have been found in groups upward to 20 in one den.[1] Reproduction: In the northern locations births peak in April–May and late summer and in the southern locations late February–March and September–October, females have two liters per year and those liters consist of 2 to 3 young per liter but can reach as high as 6 with a gestation period of 40 days.[1][3] Lifespan: 5 to 6 years within the wild 10 years within captivity, but most Southern Flying Squirrels probably die in their first year.[1] Notes: Despite being a nocturnal squirrel, an animal not typically thought to be a pet, Southern Flying Squirrels have records dating back to 1606 and later of them becoming domesticated and described as easily tamed. People have domesticated this species and have made them into family pets and there are websites dedicated to informing and educating individuals on ownership and proper care like the National Flying Squirrel Association website. The name of the species can me misunderstood if taken literally because in fact the Squirrels do not fly like a bird or other winged animals, they glide. Jumping from tree to tree or other structures and extending the membrane connected to their arms and legs allow the species to glide through the air giving them the ability to travel through the air with great control. Southern Flying Squirrels can make 90 degree turns while in flight and the maximum glide is up to 262 feet (80 meters). They may not be able to fly like a bird but the capabilities they do have maneuvering through the air are very impressive and fascinating. While flying around within their natural habitats these squirrels consume fungi and the spores that are left behind in their feces is thought to be importance in the growth and sustainability of trees, trees that they may actually have helped to produce by scattering hardwood seeds.[1][2]

Southern Flying Squirrel

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Fox, David; Mulheisen, Michael (1999), "Glaucomys volans", Animal Diversity Web, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Glaucomys_volans/, retrieved October 11, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 National Flying Squirrel Association, http://www.nfsa.us/home, retrieved October 11, 2012) 
3. 1 2 Linzey, A.V.; NatureServe (Hammerson, G.) (2008), "Glaucomys volans", IUCN 2012. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Version 2012.1), http://www.iucnredlist.org/, retrieved October 11, 2012 
4. ↑ Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, http://www.mnh.si.edu/mna/image_info.cfm?species_id=106, retrieved October 11, 2012) 

Plains Pocket Gopher

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Geomys bursarius (Plains Pocket Gopher)

Family: Geomyidae Size: Total length: Average- 9 Inches (236 mm) Tail length: Average- 3 Inches (65 mm) Weight: Males = 6-7 oz (180-200 g) Females = 4-6 oz (120-160 g) [1] Description: Plains pocket gophers are medium to small sized, dark brown gophers. They have fur-lined cheek pouches with a thick body and tiny bead-like eyes. Their front claws are long and curved for digging with smaller claws on the hind feet.[1] Similar Species: The eastern mole is similar, but creates a mound with a cone shape instead of the kidney shape a plains pocket gopher creates.[1] Range: The plains pocket gopher is from the Great Plains of North America. They have been found in southern Manitoba into the Midwest from eastern North Dakota to Indiana. Their range also extends south into New Mexico and Texas.[2] Habitat: This species typically likes to be in sandy soils for easier digging while clay type soils are usually avoided. Gophers live primarily solitary lives in burrows and tunnels and seldom travel far over land. They burrow at shallow depths usually in search of food.[1] Diet: The plains pocket gopher is herbivorous and consists mostly of grasses, forbs, and roots. Most common grasses include brome, oats, and bluegrass. Some studies have indicated that gophers prefer forbs over grasses. All of the gopher’s necessary water is obtained from their food.[3] Activity: The plains pocket gopher is active day and night, but primarily around the times of sunrise and sunset. This is when they do a great deal of digging. Gophers live within loose, social ‘colonies,’ but are primarily solitary with small home ranges. They stay within burrows and tunnels most of the time. Tunnels between neighbors are not connected.[2] Reproduction: Mating occurs during the spring. The gestation period is about 30 days. Females give birth to one litter of 4-5 young a year in late spring. When the young are ready to be weaned, the mother evicts them from the burrow. Gophers are sexually mature at 12 months of age.[2] Lifespan: The average life expectancy for this species is 5 years, but some have been known to live for 10 or 11 years.[4]

Plains Pocket Gopher

1. 1 2 3 4 Schmidly, David (1994), [Retrieved from http://www.nsrl.ttu.edu/tmot1/geomburs.htm "Plains Pocket Gopher"], The Mammals of Texas-Online Edition, Retrieved from http://www.nsrl.ttu.edu/tmot1/geomburs.htm, retrieved October 3, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 Linzey, A.V. (2008), [Retrieved from http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/42588/0 "Geomys bursarius"], IUCN Red list of Threatened Species, Retrieved from http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/42588/0, retrieved October 2, 2012 
3. ↑ Behrend, A; Tester, J (1988), "Feeding ecology of the Plains Pocket Gopher in East Central Minnesota", University of Minnesota, http://www.lter.umn.edu/biblio/fulltext/t1011.pdf, retrieved October 3, 2012 
4. ↑ Miller, Richard (1964), "Ecology and Distrubition of Pocket Gophers(Geomyidae)in Colorado", Ecological Society of America, http://www.jstor.org.ezp1.lib.umn.edu/stable/info/1933839, retrieved October 4, 2012 

Northern Pocket Gopher

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Thomomys Talpoides (Northern Pocket Gopher)

Family: Geomyidae[1] Size: The average adult northern pocket gopher weighs 2.75-5 ounces (or 60-160 grams). Their total body length ranges from 6.5-9 inches (or 165-260 mm and their tail length vary from 1.6-2.9 inches (or 40-74 mm).[2] Description: Northern pocket gophers have a tubed-shaped body, small ears and eyes, and short smooth fur that is brownish to tan. The mammal also displays a short, hairless tail and dark patches behind the ears.[3] Similar Species: Darker fur color, smaller eyes and black patches of hair around the ears distinguish it from similar species such as the Idaho pocket gopher.[2] Range: This species has the greatest range of any pocket gopher in North America, ranging from Alberta to Saskatchewan, south to northern Arizona and New Mexico, and from Washington east to Minnesota.[2] Habitat: Northern pocket gophers occupy a great variety of habitats. They are commonly found in deep soils along streams and cultivated fields. They can also be found in rocky soils and clay, in bushy areas, and even in Alpine tundra.[2] Diet: Their diet consists of roots of forbs, cacti and grasses.[3] Activity: Northern gophers are often found digging, constructing elaborate networks of tunnels. They are very territorial and aggressive, except during mating season. There are brief periods of inactivity during the summer and winter but do not truly hibernate at any time.[2] Reproduction: Female northern pocket gophers breed once a year. Mating periods vary depending on weather and latitude, but often occur from March to mid-June. A female produces a litter of 4-7 young after a gestation period of 19-20 months.[3] Lifespan: The species can live up to 6 years in captivity. In the wild, they are expected to live between 18-24 months. Every 5 years there is a total population replacement. Similar to other mammals, the females live longer than males, so there are times in the late summer where the majority of the species population is female.[3] Notes: The northern pocket gopher gets its name from their fur-lined cheek pouches, or pockets, which are used for carrying food. Their whiskers and tail serve as sensory mechanisms to assist them in navigating in the dark.[4] Another interesting note is that pocket gophers are rarely observed above ground. And when they are above ground, they never venture very far away from their burrow entrance.[1]

Northern Pocket Gopher

Southern Bog Lemming

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Synoptomys Cooperi (Southern Bog Lemming)

Family: Lemming Size: The average length of the Southern Bog Lemming is 3.7-6.06in (94-154mm). The average length of its tail is .51-.94in (13-24 mm). And, its average weight is .75oz (21.4-50g).[1] Description: This species is small with a very short tail, minimal length, and small eyes. The head is larger compared to its body size. The hair color ranges from a light chestnut to a darker shade of brown. .[2] Similar Species: The Southern Bog Lemming is the smallest when it comes to body size in the mice family. The sexes also do not make a significant difference when it comes to size.[1] Range: This specie’s general range of population is in the Northeastern part of the United States and South Eastern parts of Canada. In Minnesota in particular, the population thrives in the North Western part of the state.[3] Habitat: The Southern Bog Lemming's habitat ranges from wet grasslands, forests, to grassy wetlands. It's burrow holes are typically 6-12 inches deep and its home range varies from 1/4 of an acre.[4] Diet: This species diet consists of plants, leaves, stems, and seeds. It is also known to eat small fruits.[2] Activity: The Southern Bog Lemming is active day and night throughout the entire year. They tend to be independent creatures that travel alone.[5] Reproduction: This species breeds year round, but its reproduction thrives between the months of April–September. Gestation lasts between 21-23 days and the litter size once born is about 8-11. The Southern Bog Lemming reaches sexual maturity 60 days after birth.[4] Lifespan: It has a lifespan of about 2.5 years.[5] Notes: The Southern Bog Lemming could be the mouse you catch in your house. It breeds year round and says goodbye to their young in just 60 days. They are very small with a short tail and small eyes. Their color ranges from browns, but typically they will be a chestnut or darker brown. Since the Southern Bog Lemming’s population thrives in the Northwestern part of Minnesota, counties such as Marshall, Clearwater, and Lake of the Woods have a significantly larger population than Minneapolis would. This mouse has no significant threats and it is on the “least concerned” list for extinction.

Southern Bog Lemming

1. 1 2 Linzey, Alicia (1983), Synoptomys Cooperi, American Society of Mammalogists, pp. 1–5 
2. 1 2 Linzey, A.V. (2008), Synaptomy Cooperi, IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, p. 1 
3. ↑ Roset, Robert (2012), Minor species as the dominant rodents in an Oldfield, American Midland Naturalist, pp. 1–8 
4. 1 2 Osbourne, Joseph (2005), Effects of Habitat on small-mammal diversity and abundance in West Virginia, Wildlife Society Bulletin, pp. 814–822 
5. 1 2 Bien, Walter; Spotilafirst2=James (2007), The distribution of small mammals at the Warren Grove Gunnery Range with special emphasis on Southern Bog Lemming and Meadow Jumping Mice, New Jersey Academy of Science, pp. 9–12 

Northern Bog Lemming

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Synaptomys borealis (Northern Bog Lemming)

Family: Cricetidae [1] Size: Average length overall: 4.7 inches (120 mm). Tail length: .8-.9 inches (21 to 23 mm). Weight: 0.77-.88 ounces (22 to 25 grams) [1] Description: The northern bog lemming has reddish-brown fur that fades into gray on the under belly. It has noticeable ears that extend longer than the fur and has a very short tail.[1] Similar Species: Similar in appearance to mice and voles but has a much shorter tail. The only way to distinguish the northern bog lemming from the southern bog lemming is by dental and skull characteristics.[1][2] Range: Northern bog lemming can be found from Kansas, to Canada, and throughout northern states from Washington to Maine. In Minnesota they have been found in Lake of the Woods, Roseau, Koochiching, and Itasca counties.[2] Habitat: Areas where moisture is high and grasses are present for food and shelter. They can be found in grass meadows within forests, wet meadows, bogs, tundra, and recently burned forest areas and typically inhabit an area less than one acre.[3] Diet: The northern bog lemming consumes sedges, grasses, snails, slugs, and other invertebrates.[1][4] Activity: They are nocturnal and diurnal. They create runways shared with other species by marking them with droppings. They remain active year around but spend summer months within burrows to avoid predators.[1][4][5] Reproduction: The breeding season occurs from May to August. With a 3 week gestation period they have 2-3 litters per season with 2-8 offspring per litter. They are able to reproduce at 5 to 6 weeks of age.[2][4] Lifespan: The average lifespan of a similar species, the Southern Bog Lemming is 2.4 years; though the lifespan of this northern variant remains unknown.[6] Notes: Very little is actually recorded and known of this species which is hard to believe due to their reproduction habits and abilities. The northern bog lemming can have 2 to 3 litters in only a 4 month breeding season which seems like an impossible number, but the day after the females give birth they can breed again. Within the average 1 acre habitat, communities can range up to 36 lemmings. The extremely rapid breeding habits coupled with the low population density leads researchers to believe that there is a high mortality rate in the first year. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has developed concern for the lemmings scarcity. A Minnesota plan, Tomorrow’s Habitat for Wild and Rare, has listed the northern bog lemming as a species in need of great conservation.[1][2]

Northern Bog Lemming (this is the Southern Bog Lemming)

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Northern Bog Lemming — Synaptomys borealis, http://fieldguide.mt.gov/detail_AMAFF17020.aspx, retrieved October 11, 2012) 
2. 1 2 3 4 Nordquist, Gerda, Northern Bog Lemming, http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/volunteer/novdec06/mp.html, retrieved October 11, 2012) 
3. ↑ Linzey, A.V.; NatureServe (Reichel, J.D. & Hammerson, G.)year=2008, "Synaptomys borealis", IUCN 2012. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Version 2012.1), http://www.iucnredlist.org/, retrieved October 11, 2012 
4. 1 2 3 Nicholas, Danielle (2001), "Synaptomys borealis", Animal Diversity Web, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Synaptomys_borealis/, retrieved October 11, 2012 
5. ↑ Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, http://www.mnh.si.edu/mna/image_info.cfm?species_id=375, retrieved October 11, 2012) 
6. ↑ Saunders, D.A. (1988), "Adirondack Mammals", IUCN 2012. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry): 216, http://www.esf.edu/aec/adks/mammals/bog_lemming.htm, retrieved October 11, 2012 

Southern Red-backed Vole

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Clethrionomys gapperi (Southern Red-backed Vole)

Family: Cricetidae Size: Length: 4.57-6.77 in (116-172 mm) Weight: 0.21-1.48 oz (6-42 g) Description: The Southern red-backed vole has a broad reddish stripe from its forehead to its bottom, with a grayish nose and sides of the head, and a whitish, creamy belly. Its tail is bicolor, with dark brown or black and whitish or gray at the end of the tail. It has a stocky build, short ears, and small eyes.[1] Similar Species: Its tail is more slender and has less hair than the Northern red-backed vole. Its back is also brighter and has smaller ears than the Northern red-backed vole.[2][3] Range: It can be found in the Rocky Mountains south to southwestern New Mexico and Arizona, the Northern Great Plains to Iowa, and the Appalachian mountains to northern Georgia. Habitat: The Southern red-backed vole inhabits moist coniferous, deciduous, and mixed forests with stumps and logs for ground cover. Some voles are found in muskegs, sedge marshes, and bogs. It nests under logs, stumps, and roots, but will use the burrows of moles and other small mammals instead of making its own nest.[3] Diet: It is an herbivore with a diet of plants, seeds, nuts, berries, mosses, lichens, ferns, fungi, and arthropods. Southern red-backed voles have also been known to eat insects. Activity: The Southern red-backed vole mates with more than one vole of the opposite sex, and generally does not form colonies.[3] It is active day and night, but it is more nocturnal than diurnal.[3][4] Reproduction: The breeding season lasts about 7 months in the wild, from late winter to late fall, and gestation is 17-19 days. Litter size ranges from 2-8 young, with 1 to 6 litters per year. In 2 to 4 months young are sexually matured .[3][5] Lifespan: Most live 10-12 months in the wild, although they have been reported to live up to 20 months. Few survive two winters.[3]

Southern Red-backed Vole, Clethrionomys gapperi

1. ↑ Hazard, E. B. (1982), The Mammals of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN: The University of Minnesota Press, pp. 90–91 
2. ↑ Reid, F. A. (2006), Mammals of North America, Boston, NY: Houghton Mifflin Company, pp. 308–309 
3. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Merritt, J. F. (1981), "Clethrionomys gapperi", Mammalian Species (146): 1–9, http://www.science.smith.edu/msi/, retrieved September 23, 2012 
4. ↑ Linzey, A. V.; NatureServe (2010), "Canis lupus", IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Version 2012.1), http://www.iucnredlist.org, retrieved September 28, 2012 
5. ↑ NatureServe (2012), "Clethrionomys gapperi", NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (Version 7.1), http://www.natureserve.org/explorer, retrieved September 28, 2012 

Rock Vole

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Microtus chrotorrhinus (Rock Vole)

Family: Cricetidae Size: Weight is 1.1-1.7 oz (30-40g). Length is 5.5-7.3 in. (140-185mm). Tail Length is 1.7-2.5in (42-64mm). Description: Vole’s nose is orange-yellow hue. Fur is yellowish, grayish brown except on the stomach which is a silvery gray. Similar Species: Vole’s nose is orange-yellow hue, differentiating it from any other vole.[1] Range: Is found in northeast Canada down to northeastern Minnesota. Also found in South Carolina and Tenessee. Habitat: Lives around rocks and boulders in coniferous forests near water and mosses they eat and other plants. Diet: Fungi, fruits, and vegetation. Cuts pieces off and moves between rocks to eat. Activity: Rock voles do not hibernate. They are active throughout both day and night, possibly eating more during the morning than any other time.[1] Reproduction: Breeding season from March until October. 2-3 litters of an average 3-4 young each time. Gestation period is about 20 days.[1] Lifespan: Average lifespan is less than one year.[2] Notes: Rock voles, also known as Southern rock voles, are hard to assess as far as population numbers go. They are thought to be slowly declining in numbers due to multiple reasons. Optimal nesting sites for rock voles is near moving water, ferns, and mosses. The nests of rock voles are based around logs, boulders, and other protected places. They are known for living in the higher elevations in the Appalachians and the coniferous forests of Canada. They will use tunnels made by other burrowing animals underground. The primary competitors of rock voles are the red-blacked vole, shrews, the deer mouse, and deer. They also have to worry about parasites such as tapeworms, roundworms, fleas, mites, ticks, and fleas. Ski developments are having a negative impact on the populations of rock voles while logging seems to increase the population numbers of the rock vole population greatly. The best populations and habitats of rock voles are found in the northern range of North America, but there are also smaller populations in the eastern and southern range. The rock vole is not a highly populated specie but are so spread out throughout the continent and can adapt to many habitats so they are not at risk of extinction.[2]

Rock Vole, Microtus chrotorrhinus

1. 1 2 3 Saunders, D. A. (1988), Rock vole (microtus chrotorrhinus miller), http://www.esf.edu/aec/adks/mammals/rock_vole.htm, retrieved October 1, 2012 
2. 1 2 Linzey, A. V. (2008), Microtus chrotorrhinus, http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/42626/0, retrieved October 1, 2012 

Meadow Vole

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Microtus pennsylvanicus (Meadow Vole)

Family: Cricetidae Size: Weighing on average 1.5 oz (48 g) the Meadow Vole is a small rodent that is around 5 to 7 inches long (128 to 195 mm) with a tail that is over 40% of their body size.[1] Description: The back of the meadow vole is very dark brown and black colored with very course hairs. Their stomachs are a very light tan, white, or light brown color.[1] Similar Species: Similar species to the Meadow Vole are Pine Voles and other types of voles. Their skulls are rather long and slightly angular making them different from other species. Also, the meadow vole is larger than the pine and other voles and also have longer tails. Voles are very good swimmers that can dig very well too.[1] Range: Home to central North America, it is the largest mole population across the nation. The Meadow vole makes his home all the way across the country including Alaska and a small part of southern Canada.[1] Habitat: Because the Meadow Vole is a good swimmer, you can find this species along rivers and lakes, grassy marshes and lowland fields. Meadow Voles can also be found in some fields but are mainly in meadows and wet areas. Flooded marshes and grasslands are another habitat these creatures can be seen.[1][2] Diet: Not only are grasslands commonly the home for the Meadow Vole, fresh grass is often consumed by this critter as well. Besides grass, they tend to eat seeds, grains, sedges, herbs. Their vegetation changes with the season eating more grass in the summer and more grains in the winter. A vole will eat 60% of its body weight at a time.[1] Activity: The Meadow Vole is nocturnal during the summer and winter months but is active all times of day during spring and fall. Females are very territorial and the only time that you will see two females together are if they are mother and daughter. Males will live a range of areas.[1] Reproduction: Females may bare babies during any month of the year but most are born in spring and fall. Voles grow quickly, weaning off of their mothers in around 12 days after birth. Females can breed when they are only 28 days old but males are not ready until around day 35. On average, about five voles are born at a time.[1][2] Lifespan: Live usually less than a year due to predators but can live up to around two years.[1] Notes: When it comes to breeding, the mothers are very territorial. It has been observed that the meadow vole females to not like to let their young breed although they are mature enough to. The reason behind this is unknown. Also, they hardly make noise but when they do, they are using their vocals in a defensive situation not and offensive. They can also hear and smell really well which helps them out in the wild. Although they are small, meadow voles are small, they are very aggressive and will attack.[1]

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Neuburger, T. (1999), pennsylvanicus/ Microtus pennsylvanicus, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/microtus pennsylvanicus/, retrieved October 5, 2012 
2. 1 2 Saunder, D. A. (1988), Meadow Vole, http://www.esf.edu/aec/adks/mammals/meadow_vole.htm, retrieved October 5, 2012 

Prairie Vole

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Microtus Ochrogaster (Prairie Vole)

Family: Cricetidae Size: The prairie vole has a total length of 5.7 inches (or 146 mm) and weighs 1-1.8 ounces (or 30-50 grams). Its tail has an average length of 1.3 inches (or 34mm).[1] Description: The prairie vole is a medium-sized animal similar in appearance to a mouse. They have stocky, compact bodies with brownish-black fur. Some of the longer furs on their bodies have yellow tips, giving the species a grizzled appearance. In addition, the furs on their bellies often show a yellow cast.[2] Similar Species: Though the prairie vole is similar in appearance to the meadow vole, yellow fur on their bellies serves as a distinguishing feature. In addition, the sides of the prairie vole are somewhat paler than the back and the tail has two distinct colors.[3] Range: This species ranges throughout the prairie states of the United States and north toward southern provinces of Canada. They are also found in east-central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, and southern Manitoba through northern Oklahoma and Arkansas, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, central Tennessee, and westernmost Virginia.[4] Habitat: Prairie voles live in tall-grass prairies, often ones with very dry soil. They live in colonies, using burrows for protection in upland agricultural habitats. They will also inhabit herbaceous fields; grasslands, and even old agricultural lands.[4] Diet: Prairie voles eat mostly vegetables, such as plants, seeds, bulbs and bar. They store much of this food for winter. They are also known to eat the flesh of other prairie voles.[2] Activity: Prairie voles are active year round both day and night. Their peak activity occurs near dusk. They are more active during the day in the winter, and more active at night in the summer seasons.[4] Reproduction: Their breeding habits are not entirely well known. It is thought they breed throughout the year, but primarily in the spring and summer seasons. Each female produces several litters per year of two to six children.[2] Lifespan: Prairie voles rarely live longer than one or two years in the wild. In captivity, they may live up to 16 months.[3] Notes: Prairie voles are one of very few monogamous mammals.[5] In addition to being monogamous, they are extremely loyal partners to their mates. Their behavior often suggests that they would rather spend time with their mates than with any other voles. They even avoid other voles of the opposite sex to focus on their mates. Similar to humans, prairie voles release the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin after mating. These hormones have been linked to pair bonding and may be the reason they bond with their first mate. Prairie voles also form family units, where both parents support their offspring as well as each other.[6]

Prairie Vole

North American Porcupine

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Erethizon dorsatum (North American Porcupine)

Family: Erethizonidae Size: Total length: 25-40 inches, 645-1030 mm Tail length: 6-12 inches, 145-300 mm Height: 1-2 inches, 25-42 mm Weight: 7-40 pounds, 3.5-18 kg [1] Description: A prickly, barb covered creature that is dark brown and black in color. Quills found on dorsal surface are white tipped to ward off predators.[2] Lack canine teeth and possess exceptionally long claws.[3] Similar Species: The North American Porcupine is similar to the Central or South American porcupine, but is more likely to be found in a cold environment.[2] Range: North American Porcupines are found in the northern tier of the United States, specifically Alaska and California. The northern Great Lakes region, including Minnesota, also houses a large number of this species.[3] Habitat: Open tundra and deciduous forests are common habitats for the North American Porcupine. Groundcover, trees, and stone den shelters are utilized based on climate and elevations. During winter months, it is more common to find a porcupine in stone lodging, but will make due with trees if that is their only option.[3] Diet: All porcupines are herbivores. Foods rich in nitrogen, protein, and fiber such as bark, phloem, twigs, sugar maple buds, etc. are often consumed as staples in their diets.[3] Activity: Porcupines are nocturnal, as they feed at night in order to harness additional nutrients in their foods. Their dominant and protective nature keeps both males and females within a specific “home range” for approximately three rounds of mating.[3] Reproduction: Females initiate mating season annually by marking their territories and emitting vaginal secretions attracting males. Males will fight to mate with specific females. Alpha males are typically larger in nature, providing a good line of genetics to the offspring. When females have been fertilized, their gestation period will span around 200 days. Offspring are cared for by the female, gaining full independence within a year of birth.[2] Lifespan: Up to 18 years.[2] Notes: A porcupine's quills act as a high quality defensive mechanism, both warding off predators through an ominous color contrast (white on black) and by acting as a barrier when under attack.[3]

1. ↑ Woods, C.A. (1973), "Erethizon dorsatum", Mammalian Species 29: 1–6 
2. 1 2 3 4 Weber, Christopher (2012), North American Porcupine, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Erethizon_dorsatum.html, retrieved September 23, 2012 
3. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Shefferly, Nancy; Weber, Christopher (2012), North American Porcupine, http://www.biokids.umich.edu/critters/Erethizon_dorsatum/, retrieved September 23, 2012 

Snowshoe Hare

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Lepus americanus (Snowshoe Hare)

Family: Leporidae Size: Total length: 20 in. (508 mm.). Tail Length: 2 in. (50.8 mm.). Weight: 3 lbs. (1.36 kg).[1] Description: The Snowshoe Hare is a medium-sized rabbit. It has a brown coat in the summer, and a white coat during the winter.[1] The soles of its hind legs are densely furred and large, forming the characteristic snowshoe.[2] Similar Species: The Snowshoe Hare is similar to but slightly taller than the Eastern Cottontail Rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus).[1] Range: Northern species found as far north as Alaska and over most of Canada.[1] Habitat: Dense woodlands and forest bogs.[1] Open fields, fence rows, and coniferous lowlands.[2] Diet: Grass, clover, and ferns in the summer. Bark and twigs in the winter.[1] Also eat their own feces.[2] Activity: Nocturnal.[3] Most active during dawn and dusk during periods of low light. Sleep and groom throughout the day.[2] Reproduction: Mates in February through July. Gestation period of 36 days. Typical litter size of 4 (3-4 litters per year).[1] Weaned at 14-28 days. Polygynandrous (males and females both have multiple mates).[2] Lifespan: 5 years in the wild. Up to 85% do not live longer than 1 year.[2] Notes: Much of the Snowshoe Hare’s digestion occurs in the hindgut. Therefore, to extract all of the available nutrients they will often eat their own feces to cycle their food through a second time. The Snowshoe Hare can run up to 27 MPH and leap 10 ft. in a single bound.[2] Common predators include Coyotes (Canis latrans) Lynxes (Lynx lynx), Snowy Owls (Bubo scandiacus), and Red-Tailed Hawks (Butao jamaicensis).[1] Snowshow Hare’s are accomplished swimmers and often swim to escape predators (2). Snowshoe Hares have very dramatic population fluctuations over 10-year cycles thought to be accredited to over-grazing. Females are typically larger than males.[4]

Snowshoe Hare Lepus americanus

Northern Short-tailed Shrew

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Blarina brevicauda (Northern Short-tailed Shrew)

Family: Soricidae Size: Total Length: 4.3-5.5 inches (11-14cm) Tail Length: about 20% of total length [1] Weight: 0.35-1oz. (10-30g) Description: Soft dark gray fur that covers even the ears. Pointed head attaches to robust body. They also have chestnut colored teeth [1] .[2] Similar Species: The difference between Southern Short-tailed Shrew and the Northern Short-tailed Shrew is where they live. Northern Short-tailed shrews generally live north of Oklahoma. The tooth structure is slightly also slightly different. Range: Northern Short-tailed shrews live in central and eastern United States and Canada, mostly keeping north of Oklahoma. Habitat: The Northern Short-tailed shrew lives in woodlands with lots of brush cover, sticks and leaf-litter. Nearby food is also a necessity, so shrews will leave if they cannot find enough to eat. Diet: Shrews eat worms, snails, centipedes, beetles, invertebrates, mice, and smaller shrews. They eat up to 3 times their body weight per day. Activity: Northern short-tailed shrews are nocturnal, but can be active 24 hours a day. Most of a shrew’s energy is spent constructing narrow burrow systems or moving in where other animals lived .[3] Reproduction: Northern short-tailed shrews breed from February – November, peaking in mid-spring and late summer or early fall. Young may reproduce at 60 days. Gestation is 20-21 days. Birth litters are 4-5 shrews in a nest, and these nests are constructed ideally under a fallen log with ample brush cover. Lifespan: Northern short-tailed shrews live about 1.5 years. Notes: Northern Short-tailed shrews have poison in their saliva that allows them to attack their predators and prey in the face, paralyzing and preserving the creature until the shrew is ready to eat. The poison is not deadly to humans. In the wild they try to kill each other and live alone, but in captivity they will sleep together peacefully and try to get to the bottom of the pile.[1]

Northern Short-tailed Shrew

Star-nose Mole

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Condylura cristata (Star-nose Mole)

Family: Talpidae Size: Total Length – 6.89 to 8.07 inches (175 to 205 mm); Weight – 1.23 to 2.64 oz (35 to 75 g) [1] Description: The star-nose mole has a blackish brown appearance; their body is covered in black-brown water-repellant fur. Long tail, four large legs covered in scales. They have 11 pairs (22 total) of fleshy pink tentacles at the end of their snout that makes the nose look like a star.[2] Similar Species: Unlike any other species; easy to differentiate with their tentacles on their nose. Range: The main distribution range of these animals extends to the north-eastern US and eastern Canada. They are found in places like Labrador, Quebec, Minnesota, Indiana and South Dakota. These mammals can also be found along the Atlantic Coast and in the Appalachian Mountain area.[2] Habitat: They are semi-aquatic animals preferring low wet areas. The tunnels of these moles often lead below water surfaces. They can be found in wet meadows, marshes, banks of streams, lakes and ponds.[2] Diet: These small mammals feed on various small insects and fishes including ants, worms, beetles, mollusks and snails.[2] Activity: Spends most of the time burrowing tunnels; this species is active by day as well as by night, spending about half of each 24 hour period resting or sleeping curled upright with the head bent under the forelimbs. Reproduction: The breeding season starts in mid-March and continues through April. They reproduce once every year, but the females may reproduce a second time if their first litter is unsuccessful. One litter may contain 2- 7 offspring.[2] Lifespan: 3 to 4 years in the wild. Notes: The nose is the principal sensory organ of the Star Nosed Moles as they cannot see. The tentacles covering the edges of the nose contain 25,000 highly sensitive touch receptors. These completely hairless tentacles help them in hunting. They identify insects, invertebrates or any other consumable substance around them by the help of these tentacles. They hunt by touching their prey. It takes them very little time to decide if a substance is edible. The whole hunting process takes an average 230 ms (millisecond- a thousandth of a second) to complete once they find their prey.[2]

Star-nose Mole

1. ↑ North American Mammals: Condyluracristata, http://www.mnh.si.edu/mna/image_info.cfm?species_id=47, retrieved Spetember 23, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Star Nosed Mole, http://www.animalspot.net/star-nosed-mole.html, retrieved Spetember 23, 2012 

Eastern Mole

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Scalopus aquaticus (Eastern Mole)

Family: Talpidae Size: Head and body length: 110mm to 170mm (4.33in to 6.96in) Tail length range: 18mm to 36mm Range mass: 32g to 140g (1.13os tp 4.93oz) Average mass: 74.6g (2.63oz) Description: The Eastern Mole’s body is covered with a thick velvety fur that varied from a color from silver to black to copper. Their short tail is round and almost hairless. As for their feet there are some hairs above or upper portion but naked or hairless below and the feet are quite large. There are web between the toes of each foot which are to help with all the diggings (Gorog, 1999). They don’t have any eyes or ears. But it’s thought that the poorly developed eye may be effective in detecting light (Gorog, 1999). Habitat: These are found from eastern South Dakota, Michigan, southeastern Wyoming, Central Texas, south to the tip of Florida and north to Ontario and New England. There is a small amount of population found in southwestern Texas and in northwestern Mexico. They prefer fields, meadows, pastures and open woodland. Diet: Eastern mole most likely eat earthworms and also eat insects and their larvae, some vegetation, and in captivity will eat ground beef, dog food, mice, and small birds. They eat up to 25%-100% of their own weight in food each day (Gorog, 1999). Activity: The eastern moles are not solitary. They have high energy requirements and needs a considerable amount of food daily (Gorog, 1999). They can dig up to 4.5 meters in one hour with their powerful forefeet and are good swimmers. Even though they have no vision, they may be able to detect the presence or absence of light. Also their ears are cover by a layer of skin but again, they may be able to detect sounds and vibrations. They probably find their way around and detect prey by the use of their acute and senses of smell and touch (Gorog, 1999). Reproduction: The female has a litter of around three to five young after about 44 days and the litters are born anytime from late February through early June. The eastern mole will have only one litter per year. Newborn don’t have any fur and are in a plant-like nest that are in one of the deeper chambers. This is where they will stay until about four weeks old. They will become adult size by three months and can breed at the end of year one. Lifespan: One captive animal will usually live longer than 36 months but in the wild, these eastern moles likely live less than this (Gorog, 1999). But their average lifespan is 3 years.

Silver-haired Bat

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Lasionnycteris Notivagans (Silver-Haired Bat)

Family: bat family Size: • Total length: o 3.6 to 4.5 in (92 to 115mm) • Tail length: o 1.4 to 1.8 in (35 to 45mm) • Weight: o .28 to .39 oz (8.1 to 11g) [1] Description: This particular bat has a distinguishing black coat with silver or white tips. They also have black wings and black ears. Their ears are short, rounded, and have no hair on them.[1] Similar Species: • The most distinguishing feature of these bats is the color of their hair. They are easy to spot because they are the only bats that have that particular silver tipped hair.[1] Range: • This animal can be found throughout North America. • They range from as far north as Alaska and as far south as Mexico. • They range from as far west as California and as far east as Georgia.[1] Habitat: • This species prefers to live in temperate areas in the northern woodlands that has some source of water nearby. • They generally roost in trees such as willows, ash, and maple trees. It is not as common but they have also been known to roost in some buildings. • In the winter they roost inside of trees, buildings, and the cracks of rocks.[2] Diet: • These animals are insectivorous o They eat small, soft bodied insects such as flies, moths, mosquitoes, beetles, and crickets. o They generally look for food in the tree tops but they also search in small clearings and near water.[3] Activity: • These animals are nocturnal. At night they fly generally late compared to other bats starting after other animals have already started eating.[1] • They have 2 periods in the night that they are active. Their first period is typically 2 to 4 hours after sunset and their second occurs 6 to 8 hours after sunset.[1] • They have a generally slow flight speed of 15.7 f/s (4.8 m/s).[2] • Unlike other bats they do not hibernate in the winter they actually migrate south towards Mexico in the autumn and then return north in the spring.[1] Reproduction: • This species in particular species reproduces in a unique way called delayed fertilization. Mating occurs from August to October and then ovulation occurs in April to May when they return north. • The typical female has around 1 to 2 offspring in each attempt. • The gestational period is approximately 50 to 60 days. • Weaning lasts until the offspring is around 3 to 4 weeks old. • Offspring reach sexual maturity typically in the late summer or fall.[4] Lifespan: The life span of this particular bat is generally 12 years of age.[4] Notes: Silver haired bats, along with any other kind of bat should be considered Minnesotan’s best friend as they eat the mosquitoes and other insects that bother us every year. This bat can be distinguished from others because of its black hair with white or silver tips. It is a medium sized bat that has a small wingspan compared to others. It is nocturnal so a night trip will be necessary to see this extraordinary animal. Look for them in the later part of the night as they generally fly much later than other bats. This bat is typically found in woodland areas near water but otherwise all over Minnesota and the rest of the country. They prefer to live in willow, ash, or maple trees. In the winter they do not hibernate as most animals do they migrate south making it impossible to spot them during that time. However, you will not want to get too close to these animals as this particular bat has been known to be common carriers of rabies.

Silver haired bat in captivity

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Kunz, Thomas H. (1982), "Lasionnycteris Notivagans", Mammalian Species (172): 1–5, http://www.science.smith.edu/msi/, retrieved September 23, 2012 
2. 1 2 Arroyo Cabrales, J.; Miller, B.; Reid, F.; Cuaron, A.D.; de Grammont (2008), "Lasionnycteris Notivagans", IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, http://www.iucnredlist.org, retrieved September 23, 2012 
3. ↑ "Lasionycteris Noctivagans", Bat Conservation International, 2012, http://www.batcon.org/index.php, retrieved September 23, 2012 
4. 1 2 Smith, Josh (2004), Silver-Haired Bats, http://www.life.umd.edu 

Eastern Red Bat

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Lasiurus Borealis (Eastern Red Bat)

Family: Bat (Vespertilionidae) Size: The average length of the Eastern Red Bat is 4.28in (108.9mm). The average length of it's tail: 2.07in (52.7mm). It's average weight: .4 ounces.[1] Description: The Eastern Red Bat is moderately sized with long, pointed wings. It has small feet with ears that are low, broad, and rounded. Its fur is a rusty red with tints of light brown and white.[2] Similar Species: The feature that will distinguish the Eastern Red Bat from any other species is their hair color. The rusty red tint is unlike any other fur color from the bat family.[3] Range: The Eastern Red Bat's population is all over North and South America. In Minnesota, this bat can be seen in all parts of the state.[1] Habitat: Their habitats tend to be heavily human populated areas with trends of urban areas. Their habitats can be trees, shrubbery, and sometimes near the ground.[4] Diet: This species dines on moths and beetles.[2] Activity: Eastern Red Bats are nocturnal and thrive at night. It spends most of the day sleeping. This species migrates south for the winter in late summer.[3] Reproduction: Mating takes place in flight and copulation occurs in August or September. Female Red Bats give birth to twins each year. Their young learn to fly at about 5 weeks old and it takes them about another 5 weeks to learn to fly on their own.[4] Lifespan: The Eastern Red Bat's lifespan is about 12 years of age.[2] Notes: The Eastern Red Bat is known as one of the most beautiful bats in all of North America. Its red color and piercing eyes make it stand out from the rest. This species is on the “least concerned” list when it comes to extinction because of its wide distribution, large population, and habitat tolerance. They prefer to live in trees and hang there to sleep during the day and live/hunt at night. They have been recorded in existence since the mid 1800’s. This bat does not form large colonies and is a very independent species.

Eastern Red Bat

1. 1 2 Shump, Karl (1982), Lasiurus Borealis, The American Society of Mammalogists, pp. 1–6 
2. 1 2 3 Arroyo-Cabrales, Jay; Reid, F (2008), Lasiurus Borealis, IUCN Red List of Threatned Species, p. 1 
3. 1 2 Davis, Andrew (2010), Pelage color of red bats lasirrus borealis varies with body size, Journal of Zoology, pp. 401–405 
4. 1 2 Kurta, Allen (2010), Reproductive timing, distribution and sex ratios of tree bats in lower Michigan, Journal of Mammalogy, pp. 586–592 

Hoary Bat

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Lasiurusc cinereus (Hoary Bat)

Family: Vespertilionidae Size: Total Length: 5.3 inches (134.5millimeter) Tail Length: 2.3 inches (57.5millimeter) Weight: .7-1.2 ounces (20-35 grams) Description: Black to dark brown starting at the base, followed by a cream colored band, and then a strip of mahogany brown. Has a yellowish-brown collar under its chin along with black-rimmed yellow ears. Has long, soft fur that starts at the tip or the tail and ends by the wrists on the underside of the wings. Similar Species: This species is one of the few tree-dwelling bats that is spread widely throughout North and South America. Range: The hoary bat has a range from Argentina and Chile, extending northward into Canada. They are mostly concentrated in the Plains States and the Pacific Northwest. Habitat: This species can mainly be found in forests with small open areas and live in hollowed out areas, like woodpecker holes and squirrel nests. Females normally nest in deciduous trees, while the males prefer coniferous trees. Most bats favor areas that have dense vegetation above and no obstructions below their nest, allowing them to drop and gain flight. Diet: The hoary bat focuses its diet on moths and beetles along with mosquitos. Activity: In the winter months, this species migrates to coastal areas around south San Francisco, from South Carolina to central Florida, and throughout the Gulf States. They are nocturnal and feed once in the early evening and once before sunrise. Reproduction: Females usually give birth between the middle of May and the end of June. Litter size ranges from one to four pups. Young are born blind and deaf, with their ears and eyes opening 3 days after birth. They learn to fly 33 days after birth. Lifespan: The hoary bat lives for 6 to 7 years.[1]

Hoary Bat

1. ↑ Texas Parks and Wildlife, Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus), http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/wild/species/hoary/, retrieved 9-23-12 

Little Brown Myotis

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Myotis lucifugus (Little Brown Bat)

Family: Vespertilionidae Size: Little brown bats range in length between 2 to 4 inches (50.8 mm to 101.6 mm) and only weigh about 5 to 15 grams (0.18 oz to 0.53 oz). Their wingspan ranges from 9 to 10.5 inches (228.6 mm to 266.7 mm).[1] While both sexes appear similar, males are generally smaller than females.[2] Description: Little brown bats have fur that is glossy and varies from dark brown, golden brown, reddish, to olive brown. The abdominal region is lighter in color.[1] Unlike the rest of their body, the wings of little brown bats are nearly hairless and dark brown or black. Similar Species: The little brown bat lacks the brownish vascular membrane of the eyeball and folded retinas so they do not exhibit eye shine like other species.[1] They have a blunt tragus, or an extra piece of cartilage sticking out from the base of each ear, and fur is typically longer, darker, and more glossy than others. Other distinguishing factors include the length of the ears, pelage length and sheen, and ear color.[3] Range: Little brown bats are found in abundance in southern Alaska, Canada, across the United States, and in high, forested elevations in regions of Mexico.[1] Little brown bats are absent from hot, arid lowlands such as areas in northern Canada, Florida, the Great Plains regions, southern California, and the coasts of Virginia and North and South Carolina. They are located in Iceland and Kamchatka, which may have been a result of overseas travel.[1] Habitat: Little brown bats occupy three different types of roosts: day, night, and hibernation. Active bats occupy day and night roosts in buildings, trees, under rocks, and in piles of wood. Most roosts have very little to no light and provide good shelter and high humidity. Night roosts include confined spaces in which large clusters of about 300,000 bats can group together to increase the temperature.[1] Day and night roosts are different in order to prevent accumulation of feces and to avoid attracting predators.[4] In the winter, a hibernation roost is used. These hibernation roosts may be shared with the Myotis yumanensis and include areas such as abandoned mines and caves where temperatures are above freezing and humidity is high. Unlike day and night roosts, hibernacula are not found in or around buildings.[1] Diet: Insects make up the primary diet of little brown bats. Like birds, little brown bats catch their prey by aerial hawking and gleaning. Typically, little brown bats feed on swarms of insects in order to save time and energy. If a feeding area is successful these bats tend to go back to the same site. Types of insects that are consumed by these bats are beetles, aquatic insects, caddisflies, moths, midges, mayflies, lacewings, and mosquitoes.[1] Activity: Little brown bats do hibernate in the winter. Northern populations enter hibernation is early September whereas southern populations enter hibernation in November. Northern populations end their hibernation period in mid May whereas southern populations end in mid March.[4] Some populations may migrate for the winter but never too far from their original location. Little brown bats are primarily nocturnal and begin to hunt during the dusk hours and return before dawn.[1] In order to communicate, bats use ultrasonic calls that are beyond the range of human hearing. Calls usually last about 4 milliseconds. When hunting, these bats call about 20 times per second and increase their calls to 200 per second when approaching their prey. Calls allow bats to locate, track, and evaluate prey.[2] Reproduction: There are two phases in the mating process. These include the active phase in which both partners are awake and alert and the passive phase in which males mate with inactive individuals. During the active stage, females often times mate with several males and during the passive stage males mate with multiple females.[1] Mating occurs during the late summer and fall and is called swarming.[1] Females delay ovulation and store sperm for up to seven months until fertilization takes place in the spring. Females have a 50 to 60 day gestation period and pups are born in June and July. Most bats hang upside down, but females giving birth hang with their heads facing upwards. Unlike other species, the little brown bat only gives birth to one pup each year. Pups are born with a full set of teeth and open their eyes and ears within hours of birth. It takes about three weeks before a pup can finally fly and feed on insects. After about four weeks, pups reach their adult weight and become self-supporting.[1] Lifespan: Usually little brown bats live up to 6 to 7 years in the wild with the males leading longer lives than the females.[1] Notes: Evidence suggests that the little brown bat may be entering an extinction stage because of the widespread disease called white-nose syndrome.[3] WNS is a disease that affects hibernating bats. When the disease is visible, the nose of the bat or other hairless parts, such as the wings, have a layer of white fungus. First detected in the winter of 2006-2007 in New York, this disease has continued to spread throughout the bat community into many regions of the United States. So far 5.7 to 6.7 million bats in eastern North America have been killed with a death rate of 90 to 100 percent in some hibernacula. Scientists are still researching the disease and trying to find a way to control it.[5] In addition to the day and night roosts, females occupy nursery roosts. These roosts are similar to day roosts but are warmer and are usually only occupied by females and their offspring.[4] The same nursery roost is used each year.[1] These types of roosts are usually located in and around buildings but may also be found in hollow trees and other natural crevices. Typically during feeding little brown bats will eat half their body weight, but nursing females can eat up to 110 percent of their body weight.[2]

Little Brown Bat

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Havens, A. (2006), "Myotis lucifugus", Animal Diversity Web, http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Myotis_lucifugus/, retrieved September 24, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 "North American Mammals:Myotislucifugus", Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History NMNH, n.d., http://www.mnh.si.edu/mna/image_info.cfm?species_id=199, retrieved September 24, 2012 
3. 1 2 Kunz, T.; Reichard, J. (2009), "Status Review of the Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) and Determination that Immediate Listing Under the Endangered Species Act is Scientifically and Legally Warranted", Myotis Status Review (1): 1–22, http://www.bu.edu/cecb/files/2010/12/Final-Status-Review.pdf, retrieved September 24, 2012 
4. 1 2 3 Barclay, R. (1980), "Myotis lucifugus", Mammalian Species (142): 1–8, http://www.science.smith.edu/msi/, retrieved September 24, 2012 
5. ↑ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2012), "White-nose syndrome: the devastating disease of hibernating bats in North America", White-Nose Syndrome.org: 1–2, http://www.whitenosesyndrome.org/sites/default/files/resource/white-nose_fact_sheet_9-2012.pdf, retrieved October 8, 2012 

Northern Myotis

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Myotis septentrionalis (Northern long-eared myotis)

Family: Vespertilionidae Size: The average length of the Northern myotis is 2.90- 3.3 inches (74-84mm) long, the length of the tail averaging at 1 inch (26mm), and it weighs between .17- .35 oz (5- 10g). They have a wingspan of 9-10 inches (22.86- 25.4cm).[1] Compared to other Myotis species, these bats have long ears with a relatively long tragus in each ear. Description: The Northern myotis is a small bat with dull, gray-brown pelage. It has relatively long ears that extend beyond the tip of the nose when laid forward. It also has a narrow and sharp-pointed tragus, which is the externally visible cartilaginous structure of the external ear.[2][3] Similar Species: Similar species of the Northern myotis include the Myotis sodalis and the Myotis lucifugus, from which it can be distinguished by having ears that extend beyond the tip of the nose when laid forward and a long, pointed tragus. Range: The northern myotis is widely distributed over eastern and northern North America, but has been known to stretch all of the way down to Texas.[2] Habitat: The Northern myotis hibernates in caves and mine tunnels. It is also found heavily in forested areas, and have been known to roost in buildings, under shingles of buildings, under exfoliating tree bark, and in caves and mines.[3][4] Diet: The Northern myotis tend to forage in forest interiors, and their long ears allow them to find stationary insects. The diet focuses on moths, which often are often captured by gleaning, or plucking, the insects from a surface. They do eat other insects, which include caddisflies, beetles, flies, and leafhoppers, and generally hunt 1 to 3 meters from the ground. Activity: During autumn, the Northern Myotis gathers into groups of a few hundred individuals for the purpose of mating, followed by hibernation. They forage at dusk or shortly after sunset and again at dawn, resting periodically throughout the night and roost during the day, being largely nocturnal.[3] Reproduction: Mating occurs in autumn when groups of a few hundred, known as “swarming”, are formed and pairs mate before going into hibernation. The gestation period for he Northern myotis is 50-60 days, after which a single young bat is born. Young are generally born in late June or early July. Female bats nurse their young for about a month, and give birth to one young bat a year.[5] Lifespan: Northern Myotis have been known to live up to 18.5 years.[3] Notes: Male and female Northern Myotis bats roost separately; however, females with offspring may form small maternity colonies of less than 60 individuals. Northern bats have good hearing and they often listen for sounds made by their insect prey. They also use echolocation to locate insects resting on leaves, tree trunks, or on buildings. As in the case with most bats, many humans consider northern bats to be pests. Bats often work their way into attics of houses and may carry a threat of rabies, although this is often exaggerated. The females of this species are generally larger and heavier than the males. There was only one reported specimen from Winterhaven in Dimmit County in Texas, making it doubtful that resident populations of this species occur in Texas.[3] Bats are the only mammals capable of flight. Long-eared bats are more of a forest dweller than other Myotis species. They are much more solitary in habits than other Myotis, generally found singly or in small groups containing up to 100 individuals.[1] Although sperm is transferred to the female during copulation that occurs in the fall, ovulation and fertilization of the egg are delayed until the females arouse from hibernation the following spring.[5]

Northern myotis

1. 1 2 Bat Conservation of Wisconsin, http://www.batcow.org/northern_myotis.htm, retrieved (October 15, 2012) 
2. 1 2 Northern Myotis, http://www.nsrl.ttu.edu/tmot1/myotsept.htm, retrieved (October 15, 2012) 
3. 1 2 3 4 5 Northern Myotis - Myotis septentrionalis, http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/wild/species/northmyotis/, retrieved (October 15, 2012) 
4. ↑ Arroyo-Cabrales, J; Alvarez Castaneda, S. T. (2008), The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/14201/0, retrieved (October 15, 2012) 
5. 1 2 Kansas Mammal Atlas: Northern Myotis, (1999), http://webcat.fhsu.edu/ksfauna/mammals/index.asp?page=species&species_id=370-1119&dots=yes&tributaries=yes&isAnura=&map=, retrieved (October 15, 2012) 

Tri-colored Bat (Eastern Pipistrelle)

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Perimyotis subflavus (Tri-colored Bat)

Family: Vespertilionidae Size: Tri colored bat has a total length of 2.9-3.5 inches (73.66-88.9mm).[1] With wings spread, it has a length of 8-10 inches wide (203.2-254mm). It weighs from 5-8 grams (.005-.008kg). [2] Description: Tri-colored bats are seen with yellowish, grayish brown, reddish brown fur color. They have pink ears, face, and skin. Some of this specie has fur on their tails and some has light fur on theirs. Along with that, it is a weak flier. Similar Species: Another specie that can be mistaken as a tri-colored bat is a mouse-eared bat. Mouse-eared bats have dark brown or black skins. Tri-colored bat have more of a short and round ear.[1] Range: Tri-colored bats live in the central and western parts of the United States, western Canada, and the western part of Mexico. This specie is spotted all over Minnesota but mostly in the south western part of this state.[1] Habitat: Caves, mines, tunnels, buildings, and edge of forests (trees) are where this specie lives.[3] Diet: Tends to eat all insects such as moths, flies, beetles, mosquitoes, midges, bugs, and ants.[2] Activity: Usually they are the first bats to hibernate in the fall and first to wake up from hibernation after winter. They cannot stand up to the cold and so they hibernate in warm areas such as deep in caves and mines. Tricolored bats are active in the daytime and sleeps/hides in the early evenings.[2] Reproduction: Tri colored bats mate during the fall season and the female usually gives birth in spring to two twins. The young are born with hairless and closed eyes.[1] They tend to grow super fast and after 4 weeks to a month, the young tri-colored bat learns to fly.[2] When the young is 5-6 weeks old, it becomes independent to live its own life.[1] Lifespan: Tri colored bats lives from an average of 10-15 years of age.[1] Notes: Tri colored bats are rarely noticed because of their small sizes, fast turns, and blending in with the dark evening sky. The only way to spot them is if they fly in groups scattering around.[3]

Tri-colored Bat

1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Cuvier, F. (1832), Perimyotis subflavus, http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/rsg/profile.html?action=elementDetail&selectedElement=AMACC03020, retrieved October 7, 2012 
2. 1 2 3 4 Holliday, Cory (2004), Tri-colored Bat url= http://www.tnbwg.org/TNBWG_PESU.html 
3. 1 2 Tuttle, Merlin D. (2012), Perimyotis subflavus, http://www.batcon.org/index.php/all-about-bats/species-profiles.html?task=detail&species=2345&country=43&state=all&family=all&start=25, retrieved October 7, 2012 

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