The Effects of Elevation on Foraging Behavior of Bats in Southern Appalachia

There are limited studies on bat activity in higher elevations in the Appalachian region. Levels of bat activity were compared in south central Appalachia at low (\u3c 914.4 m) and high (\u3e 1, 524 m) elevations in open, forest edge, and riparian habitats. Additionally, habitat suitability was modeled for a common species, big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus). The study started May 27th 2019, and sites were monitored biweekly until October 2nd 2019. Six species and one genus were recorded during the study. Species from the Myotis genus were grouped together because of similar call characteristics. Results show that species were significantly more active in the lower elevations (F= 44.22,