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Distribution of LeConte\u27s Free-tailed Bat (Tadarida brasiliensis cynocephala) in Arkansas, with Notes on Reproduction and Natural History

Abstract

During the past 20 years (1982-2001) we have studied the biology, occurrence and distribution of LeConte\u27s (Brazilian) free-tailed bat, Tadarida brasiliensis cynocephala, in Arkansas. Colonies and individuals were reported from man made structures only. Four new county records have been documented since 1988, extending the range from the central part of the state to Arkansas\u27s northern-most tier of counties. Numerous nuisance maternity colonies were investigated during exclusion activities and one, year-round colony provided the majority of reproductive data. A total of 152 free-tailed bats was submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health Rabies Laboratory (1982-2001); most during February through April, a period that corresponded to annual mating activity. Pregnant bats had single embryos only in the right uterine horn and parturition occurred in mid-June. Seven specimens tested positive for rabies

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