Brazilian (Mexican) Free-tailed Bat (Tadarida brasiliensis)

Also known as the Mexican free-tailed bat, the Brazilian free-tailed bat is one of the most abundant mammals in North America. They are typically 9 cm (3.5 in) in length and weigh around 7–12 g (0.25–0.42 oz) with females tending to be slightly heavier than males by 1-2 grams for increased fat storage to use during gestation and nursing. Their ears are wide, rounded, and large compared to their heads, nearly meeting at the front of the face, but distinctly not joined at the midline and projecting anterodorsally from just before the muzzle to the back of the head. They use their large ears to help them find prey using echolocation.

Roosting Preference: It tends to roost in huge numbers, but at relatively few locations, which makes them vulnerable to habitat destruction.

Diet: Insectivorous - they eat moths, beetles, dragonflies, flies, true bugs, wasps, and ants.