HAWAIIAN HOARY BAT Lasiurus cinereus semotus (Peale and Beauvois) 



Order: CHIROPTERA Family: VESPERTILIONIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : Very similar in coloration to the North American hoary 

 bat (L. c. cinereus ), but differs in smaller size. Reported to occur in two color 

 phases, a gray or common phase, and a red phase; Tomich (1969). however, believes 

 these differences may be due to conditions of age and wear rather than genetic anomaly . 



Present distribution : Specimens recorded from Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii, but 

 probably occurs on all main islands at least sporadically, and casually in flight over 

 offshore islets (Tomich, 1969). 



Former distribution : Same . 



Status : This is a non-social species , with a scattered population that may give the 

 appearance of being less common than it actually is . 



Estimated number in the wild : Possibly numbers a few thousand (Tomich, 1969: 24). 

 Breeding rate in the wild : Unknown . 



Reasons for decline : Apparent loss of habitat due to removal of sheltering tree growth 

 in many areas may have brought about a decline in numbers . 



Protective measures already taken : Field research program underway to determine 

 actual status and base guidelines for possible future action. Considered an endangered 

 species by State of Hawaii; thus is protected by law. 



Measures proposed : Strictly prohibit collecting even for legitimate scientific purposes; 

 initiate or continue life history studies, possibly through a banding program. 



Numbers in captivity : None known . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Unknown . 



References : 



Tomich, P. Quentin. 1969. Mammals in Hawaii. Bishop Museum Press, 

 Honolulu . 



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