- Recognition
- Weight: 1/8 - 1/4 oz. (5-7 g)
- Body length: 3 - 3 7/8 in. (75-100 mm)
- Wingspan: 9-11 in. (23-27 cm)
- Forearm: 1 3/8 - 1 1/2 in. (35-39 mm)
The northern long-eared bat has dull brown fur with a slightly paler belly. True to its name, the northern long-eared bat has long ears that would extend well beyond the muzzle (nose) if laid flat. In addition to its ear length, the northern long-eared bat also has a long, pointed tragus. These two characters can help distinguish this species from little brown bats.
Northern long-eared bats are most active one to two hours after dusk and then again right before sunrise. Northern long-eared bats are capable of picking up insects like katydids off of vegetation. This feeding process is known as gleaning. Generally, northern long-eared bats begin feeding after dusk and often carry larger prey to their night roosts for consumption.