Northern Yellow Bat

Scientific Name
Lasiurus intermedius
Also Known As
Northern Yellow Bat
Range
All of Florida
Diet
True Bugs, Flies, Mosquitoes, Beetles
Life Expectancy
5 - 10 Years
the Northern Yellow Bat

Photo 6402329 © Alvaro Monter Pozos, CC BY-NC

Northern Yellow Bat conservation status - Least Concern

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The Northern Yellow Bat in Central Florida

The northern yellow bat (Lasiurus intermedius) is a small, migratory bat species found across the southeastern United States, including central Florida. This comprehensive guide provides detailed identification tips, biology facts, and information on ideal habitat conditions and prevention of conflicts with the northern yellow bat in central Florida.

Appearance and Identification

The northern yellow bat can be identified by the following unique physical characteristics in both juvenile and adult stages

Male Adult Northern Yellow Bat

Photo 5784312 © Juan Carlos Pérez Magaña, CC BY-NC

Adult Northern Yellow Bats

  • Size: Adults reach a body length of 3.5-4.5 inches (9-11 cm) and wingspan of 11 inches (28 cm). They weigh 0.3-0.5 ounces (8-14 grams).

  • Fur: Adults have bright yellow fur on the undersides and upper back. The shoulders and top of the head are frosted gray.
  • Wings: Broad wings well-adapted for long distance migration.
  • Other Features: Pointed tragus in the ear. Small, flattened head. Small eyes.
Female Juvenile Northern Yellow Bat

Photo 98455411 © Debbie, CC BY-NC

Juvenile Northern Yellow Bats

  • Size: Newborns are about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) long and weigh approximately 0.2 ounces (5 grams). They reach adult size by 6-8 weeks old.
  • Fur: Juvenile fur is grayish on the back and lighter on the underside. The fur is short and very soft.
  • Features: Younger bats have disproportionately large feet and ears compared to head and body size. Wings are underdeveloped at first.

Maturation Rate

Northern yellow bat pups grow rapidly after birth. They reach full adult size by 20-30 days old. Sexual maturity is reached by 6-12 months old in females and 1.5 years old in males. The young bats are independent and capable of migration by late summer.