Biology ETDs

Publication Date

5-20-1966

Abstract

This study has two objectives: (1) to determine the species composition and ecologic and geographic distribution of the chiropteran fauna in southern Hidalgo County, New Mexico, (2) to record the time and air temperature during periods of utilization of water holes by the species of bats found in the study area.

Most of the 1,250 specimens examined in this study were taken in mist nets over streams, ponds, and metal stock tanks. A few individuals were collected in day roosts, night roosts, hibernacula or by shooting. Most of the specimens are [reserved as standard museum study skins and skulls or entire in fluid and are housed in the Museum of Southwestern Biology at The University of New Mexico.

Three families and 18 species of bats representing Nearctic and Neotropical forms inhabit the study area. The families Phyllostomatidae, Vespertilionidae and Molossidae are represented by 2, 13, and 3 species, respectively. Myotis Volans, M. keenii and Tadarida femorosacca are reported from the study area for the first time. This represents the second known occurrence of T. femorosacca in the State. Five additional species can be expected to occur occasionally in the study area.

The distribution relationship of the bat fauna to vegetation suggests that vegetation is a controlling factor in bat distribution. Only in the tree roosting bats (Lasiurus spp.) can this relationship be explained.

Data on day roosts night roosts, and hibernacula are summarized.

Time of capture and air temperature at time of capture are summarized for 14 and 15 species, respectively. Mean air temperature at time of capture varied inversely with mean time of capture, expressed as minutes after sunset, and mean altitude of capture.

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Biology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

UNM Biology Department

First Committee Member (Chair)

James Smith Findley

Second Committee Member

William Clarence Martin

Third Committee Member

Marvin L. Riedesel

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