During the last few decades, detailed studies of bats have been conducted in many parts of Nebraska, but comprehensive surveys were lacking in the Wildcat Hills and other western regions of the state. The Wildcat Hills represent a unique and isolated area of rugged buttes, ridges, and canyons dominated by ponderosa pine forests (Pinus ponderosa) in central parts of Nebraska's panhandle. This area also contains landscapes with some of the highest wind speeds in the state, making it conducive for future wind-energy development. To better understand the natural history of bats and to promote conservation efforts in the region, we report on the distribution of bats and their habitats, as well as on their relative abundance, seasonal activity, and reproduction in the Wildcat Hills and surrounding areas. From August 1997 to July 2011, we captured 968 bats representing 7 species, and we also examined museum specimens previously collected by other researchers from the region. For 5 species, we extend the known period of nonhibernating activity in the state, and we provide evidence of reproducing populations for 7 species in the region based on presence of lactating females. New reproductive information for bats in Nebraska also includes timing of pregnancy and lactation, as well as presence of volant young. For migratory species during autumn migration, hoary bats (Lasiurus cinereus) and eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis) began moving through the region earlier (late July/early August) than silver-haired bats (Lasionycteris noctivagans). Documentation of the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) in riparian areas and buildings along the North Platte River represents a range extension for this species from the Pine Ridge in northwestern Nebraska. Knowledge gained from our long-term study will assist resource managers and biologists in efforts to protect and manage bats as these bats face unprecedented challenges in the future with development of additional wind-energy facilities and likely westward spread of white-nose syndrome in North America.
