Plecotus is a genus of bats commonly known as long-eared bats. They belong to the family Vespertilionidae, which consists of over 40 species of insectivorous bats. The name Plecotus is derived from the Greek words "pleko," meaning "to plait" or "to fold," and "ous," meaning "ear," referring to the distinctive long ears that characterize these bats.
Long-eared bats are found in various regions across the world, including Europe, Asia, and parts of North America. Their average body size ranges from small to medium, with a wingspan that can reach up to 30 centimeters. Plecotus bats have soft fur that can exhibit a variety of colors, from pale shades of brown or gray to reddish-brown or yellowish-brown hues.
One of the defining features of the Plecotus genus is their long ears, which can measure as long as 4 centimeters. These large ears aid in detecting and capturing prey by enhancing their hearing sensitivity. Long-eared bats primarily feed on insects, such as moths, beetles, and flies, which they locate using echolocation, emitting ultrasonic calls and listening for the echoes to navigate and identify their prey.
In terms of habitat, Plecotus bats are commonly found in woodland areas, forests, and sometimes even urban environments. They often roost in tree cavities, old buildings, caves, or rock crevices, and sometimes form maternity colonies during the breeding season. These bats are typically nocturnal, actively foraging during the night and utilizing their long ears and keen senses to locate and capture prey.
