Master's Theses

Department

Biology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Individuals of the endangered gray bat, Myotis grisescens, were trapped and marked with reflective bands as they emerged form a maternity colony in the storm sewer beneath Pittsburg, Kansas. These bats subsequently were spotlighted to map flyways and foraging areas used by the colony. They used riparian woodland as flyways in early summer but, as the colony size increased to approximately 5350 later in summer, bats began flying directly overland to foraging areas. Gray bats were found within 14.3 km of the storm sewer entrances. They appeared opportunistic in their selection of foraging areas but usually remained near water and dense floodplain vegetation. No significant differences in canopy closure, canopy height, number of shrubs present, or slope were found between areas used and not used by bats. However, tree density and diversity were greater in areas used, as were density and diameter of fallen logs. Areas to be designated as critical habitat, periods of limited access to the storm sewer, and restrictions concerning habitat alteration are suggested. Artificial roosts could be developed to enhance the security and the size of the colony.

Keywords

Biology

Advisor

Jerry R. Choate

Date of Award

Spring 1989

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Rights

© The Author(s)

Comments

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