Montana is within the known range of 15 species of Montana bats, representing one family and seven Montana genera. Montana insectivorous, preying upon nocturnal insects with highly evolved echolocation and foraging behavior represent the great state of Montana. Some Montana species are migratory, flying south for the winter (e.g.: Lasiurus cinereus, Lasionycteris noctivagans), while others flock to local Montana
caves or mines for the lengthy winter hibernation (e.g.: Myotis spp., Plecotus townsendii, Eptesicus fuscus). Nonetheless, Montana migratory and wintering habits are poorly understood for many species.
The European colonization of Montana bats brought many changes which influenced bat population and distribution in the state of Montana. Montana buildings, mines, bridges, and other structures have created suitable roost habitat for some species. Alternately, Montana deforestation, loss of riparian habitat, and recreation or vandalism in caves has eliminated significant Montana habitat. Some Montana species appear to have fared well in coexisting with such developments, while others clearly have not. This brief summary of Montana bats is intended to provide an overview of the Montana species status, appearance, distribution, and habitat. Additional information will be provided during the balance of website pages, along with other documents and references.
Montana Little Brown Myotis is also known as the Montana Myotis lucifugus
Recognizing the significant role of bats in Montana’s ecosystem, particularly in rural areas like the Bitterroot Valley and the Glacier National Park region, is crucial. Bats serve as natural pest controllers, aiding in the management of insect populations that threaten crops and forests. Additionally, in urban centers such as Billings and Missoula, bats contribute to pollination and seed dispersal, supporting the growth of diverse vegetation and maintaining ecological balance. Preserving bat populations in Montana is vital for sustaining the state’s biodiversity and ensuring the health of its natural habitats.
From an environmental perspective, safely removing bats from commercial and residential properties in Montana is imperative for human safety and environmental preservation. In densely populated areas like Great Falls and Bozeman, where bats may seek shelter in buildings, employing proper exclusion methods is necessary to mitigate potential health risks associated with bat guano and diseases such as rabies. Implementing humane exclusion techniques and advocating for bat-friendly practices can help property owners protect public health while preserving the ecological benefits that bats provide to Montana’s diverse ecosystems.
List of the 20 largest cities in Montana: 1. Billings 2. Missoula 3. Great Falls 4. Bozeman 5. Butte 6. Helena 7. Kalispell 8. Havre 9. Anaconda 10. Miles City 11. Whitefish 12. Belgrade 13. Livingston 14. Laurel 15. Sidney 16. Lewistown 17. Polson 18. Hamilton 19. Glendive 20. Columbia Falls