DNR: New Species Of Bat Found In Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A new species of bat may be calling Minnesota home.

The Department of Natural Resources announced Monday that an evening bat was caught last month at a National Guard site in Arden Hills.

Researchers conducting a three-year bat survey concluded that the captured bat was different from the seven species found in Minnesota's woods, and genetic testing showed it was indeed an evening bat.

"It's very exciting to discover a new bat species in the state," DNR endangered species coordinator Rich Baker said in a statement. "The evening bat's historic range is limited to central Iowa. As our project proceeds, we'll be keeping an eye out for more evening bats."

Baker added that researchers aren't sure if the species has expanded its range north, or if it was blown into Minnesota during a summer storm.

Wildlife officials say the evening bat find was the first new bat discovery in Minnesota in a century.

The DNR is conducting the bat survey along with students from Central Lakes College.