Symphony of Horizon Logo
Western Small-footed Myotis

Western Small-footed Myotis

Mexico, Canada
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Grassland, Desert, Mountain

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
flying insects, mosquitoes, moths, and nocturnal beetles

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
nocturnal

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Activity patterns. The Western Small-footed Myotis begins foraging before full dark, and activity is concentrated in the three first hours of the night. It hibernates from early autumn through winter. It roosts in rock crevices, cliffs, abandoned mines, caves, and occasionally tunnels and buildings and under tree bark and rocks scattered on the ground. In Wyoming, calls had mean maximum frequency of 62 - 4 kHz, minimum frequency of 40 - 3 kHz, and duration of 3 - 5 milliseconds.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Western Small-footed Myotis is officially designated as Least Concern. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to forest, grassland, desert, mountain, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of flying insects, mosquitoes, moths, and nocturnal beetles. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a nocturnal activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 15 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Western Small-footed Myotis.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeMexico, Canada
Habitat RangeForest, Grassland, Desert, Mountain
Lifespan15 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificMyotis ciliolabrum
Registry Info
Lifespan15 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyVespertilionidae