Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

Scientific Name
Tadarida brasiliensis
Also Known As
Mexican Free-tailed Bat
Range
All of Florida
Diet
Moths, Beetles, Dragonflies, Flies, Ants, Wasps
Life Expectancy
8 - 10 Years
The Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

Photo 152370587 © lisaeiselin, CC BY-NC

Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat conservation status - Least Concern

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Brazilian Free-Tailed Bats in Central Florida

The Brazilian free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis) is a highly adaptable bat species found across the southern United States, including central Florida. As the name suggests, this bat has a distinctive tail that extends beyond the tail membrane, giving it greater agility in flight. This comprehensive guide provides detailed identification tips, biology facts, and control methods for Brazilian free-tailed bats in central Florida.

Read on to learn about their habits, reproduction, diet, health risks, signs of infestation, and professional exclusion options if you suspect an invasion on your property.

Appearance and Identification

Brazilian free-tailed bats can be identified by their physical characteristics

Adult Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

Photo 198385062 © Lara Brenner, CC BY-NC

Adult Brazilian Free-Tailed Bats

  • Size: Adults have a wingspan of 11-13 inches (28-33 cm) and weigh 0.5 to 0.75 ounces (14 to 21 grams). Their bodies reach 3-3.5 inches (8-9 cm) in length.
  • Fur: Adults have dense, short, velvety fur that is dark gray to brownish-black on the back and lighter gray underside.
  • Wings: Narrow, pointed wings adapted for fast, sustained flight.
  • Tail: Distinctive free tail that protrudes 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) beyond the tail membrane.
  • Head: Small, flattened head with large eyes and short, rounded ears.
Juvenile Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

Photo 94999305 © Jaime Cedeño Nicolás, CC BY-NC

Juvenile Brazilian Free-Tailed Bats

  • Size: Newborns weigh approximately 0.25 ounces (7 grams) at birth with a wingspan of 8 inches (20 cm). They reach adult size at around 6 weeks old.
  • Fur: Juvenile fur is gray to black in color. The fur is short and thin.
  • Features: Younger bats have large feet and protruding pink lips. Their tails extend just beyond the tail membrane.

Maturation Rate

Pups grow rapidly after birth, reaching full adult size in 6 weeks. They are sexually mature at 1 year old. The average maturation rate allows populations to rebound quickly after pest control efforts. Diligent, ongoing management is key.