Bat Reproduction

Bats have one of the slowest reproduction rates among mammals, usually producing only one offspring a year. Although one "pup" is typical, some species have twins or even quadruplets. Young are usually born in May or June. In certain species the females raise their young alone or in small groups. Other species, like the little brown bat, form large maternity colonies in attics, barns, or other hot locations. Usually, the young are left behind while the mother is out foraging. But in some maternity colonies, a few females will stay behind as babysitters. Returning mother bats find their babies by their scent and call. Baby bats learn to fly in as little as two to four weeks. For their size, bats live pretty long lives. While the average lifespan is between five and ten years, some bats can live for over 30 years.