Landscape-scale distribution of tree roosts of the northern long-eared bat in Mammoth Cave National Park, USA

Female northern long-eared bats (Myotis septentrionalis) in Mammoth Cave National Park, USA, predominantly select roost sites within 2000 meters of known hibernacula, favoring higher elevations in mesic upland deciduous forests near water sources and road corridors. This landscape-scale pattern, identified through mist-netting and radiotelemetry from 2015 to 2016, challenges traditional microhabitat-focused conservation strategies by highlighting the importance of broader spatial considerations for effective maternity habitat management. The study underscores the need for empirically-based, large-scale assessments to inform policies aimed at conserving this declining species.

Thalken, M. M., Lacki, M. J., & Yang, J. (2018). Landscape-scale distribution of tree roosts of the northern long-eared bat in Mammoth Cave National Park, USA. Landscape Ecology, 33(7), 1103–1115. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10980-018-0659-3