Keen's myotis (Myotis keenii) is a species of vesper bat. It is found in British Columbia in Canada and in Washington and Alaska in the United States.[1] It is named after the Rev. John Henry Keen, who collected the specimen that formed the basis for the first scientific description of the species.[2] Classification for Keen's myotis formerly included the northern long-eared myotis (Myotis septentrionalis), resulting in older studies confusing the species for one another.[3]
Description
Measurements: Forearm 1.4-1.6 in., WT 0.25–0.33 oz (7.1–9.4 g). Average body length 8–9 cm, tail length 4–5 cm.[4] In appearance, Keen's myotis is very similar to other long-eared bats of the same range, with characteristic dark brown patches on the shoulders.[5]
Behavior
Keen's myotis prefers coastal habitats, but is often found in urban areas as well. It frequently roosts in trees and rock crevices.[6] It is nocturnal and insectivorous.[5] Keen's myotis probably exhibits the same breeding habits of other temperate vespertilionids, but there is little data available.[7]
Lifespan
In the wild, Keen's myotis is recorded living upwards of 12 years,[8] while in captivity, it is reported living 19 years.[7]
