Roosts and activity areas of Nyctinomops macrotis in northern Arizona.

The article presents a study that examined the specific characteristics of maternity roost used by female big-free tailed bats Nyctinomops (N.) macrotis in Northern Arizona and their use of water sources and foraging areas. The study areas where the bats have been captured included Arizona's Canyon de Chelly National Monument, House Rock Valley and Grand Canyon National Park and North Kaibab Ranger District. The study recorded nine successive locations for one N. macrotis during four nights, caculated the average distance traveled by the bats between successive locations and determined their flight speed. The study found that the bats' maternity roots were difficult to access and within protected areas, while their foraging areas are under the management of public or private agencies.