GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) - The rare Florida bonneted bat is the subject of a University of Florida research study aimed at discovering more about the habits of the elusive animal.
Wildlife ecology and conservation professors Holly Ober and Robert McCleery are leading several studies of the bat, listed as federally endangered since 2013. The bat is found only in southern Florida, but the professors say little is known about their geographic distribution and favored habitats.
Three natural roost sites have been documented since 2014, in Avon Park Air Force Range, Big Cypress National Preserve and Babcock Webb Wildlife Management Area in Charlotte County.
The Florida bonneted bat is the state’s largest, with a wing span of 20 inches. It gets its name from ears that point forward over its eyes.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.