Tasmanian bats: identification, distribution and natural history

Abstract

A review of the natural history of bats in Tasmania is presented along with data collected in recent surveys. Recent taxonomic changes affecting the Tasmanian bat species are discussed and a key is provided to allow the identification of Tasmanian bats. The appearance of each species is described and body measurements given. Tasmanian populations do not show a uniform trend of increased size compared with southeast Australian populations. Distribution records are presented along with data on habitat preferences and abundance. The diet, activity patterns, roosting requirements, reproductive cycles and conservation status of the species are also discussed.