The Armenian whiskered bat, scientifically known as Myotis aurascens, is a species of bat belonging to the Vespertilionidae family. It is native to the region of Armenia, where it predominantly inhabits limestone caves and rocky crevices. This bat species is characterized by its distinctive physical features, which include a relatively small body size and a wingspan of approximately 22 to 26 centimeters.
The Armenian whiskered bat derives its common name from the presence of long, bristle-like hairs on its face and lower jaw, commonly referred to as "whiskers." These whiskers serve as sensory organs that aid in navigation and foraging in low light conditions. In addition to their whiskers, these bats possess large ears, rounded snouts, and sharp teeth that are well adapted for capturing and consuming insects – their primary source of nourishment.
During the night, the Armenian whiskered bat emerges from its roosting sites in search of prey, which primarily consists of various flying insects such as moths, beetles, and flies. This bat species utilizes echolocation, emitting high-frequency sounds that bounce off objects and return as echoes, guiding their navigation and locating potential food sources.
Despite their relatively small size, Armenian whiskered bats play a vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. They contribute to the control of insect populations, helping to regulate pests that may otherwise cause harm to crops and vegetation. Consequently, these bats actively contribute to the preservation of biodiversity within their habitat. However, there is still much ongoing research and conservation efforts necessary to understand and protect this species adequately.
