# 85 FR 35510: Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for Florida Bonneted Bat

> Federal · Regulations · In force

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/FR_PRORULE_2020-10840

## Section

- **Citation:** 85 FR 35510
- **Heading:** Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for Florida Bonneted Bat
- **Jurisdiction:** Federal
- **Kind:** Regulations
- **Status:** In force
- **Text as of:** August 14, 2026
- **Source:** Compiled text
- **Location:** Federal Register / Vol. 85 / 85 FR 35510

## Text

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 17 [Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106; FF09E21000 FXES11110900000 201] RIN 1018-BE10 Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for Florida Bonneted Bat AGENCY:
Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION:
Proposed rule.

SUMMARY:
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat ( Eumops floridanus ) under the Endangered Species Act (Act). Approximately 598,261 hectares (ha) (1,478,333 acres (ac)) in portions of 10 Florida counties fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. If we finalize this rule as proposed, it would extend the Act's protections to this species' critical habitat. We also announce the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation.

DATES:
We will accept comments on the proposed rule or draft economic analysis that are received or postmarked on or before August 10, 2020. Comments submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see ADDRESSES , below) must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the closing date. We must receive requests for public hearings, in writing, at the address shown in FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT by July 27, 2020.

ADDRESSES:
Comment submission: You may submit comments on the proposed rule or draft economic analysis by one of the following methods:
(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the Search button. On the resulting page, in the Search panel on the left side of the screen, under the Document Type heading, check the Proposed Rules box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on “Comment Now!”
emaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the Search button. On the resulting page, in the Search panel on the left side of the screen, under the Document Type heading, check the Proposed Rules box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on “Comment Now!”
(2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; MS: JAO/1N, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.
We request that you send comments only by the methods described above. We will post all comments on http://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we will post any personal information you provide us (see Information Requested, below, for more information).
Document availability: The draft economic analysis is available at http://www.fws.gov/verobeach/, at http://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106, and at the South Florida Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ).
The coordinates or plot points or both from which the maps are generated for this proposed critical habitat designation are available at http://www.fws.gov/verobeach/, at http://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106, and at the South Florida Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ). Supporting documents, consisting of supplemental information and details relating to conservation lands, can be found at http://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106. Any additional tools or supporting information that we may develop for this critical habitat designation will also be available at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website and field office listed below, and may also be included in the preamble below and/or at http://www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Roxanna Hinzman, Field Supervisor, U.S
at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0106. Any additional tools or supporting information that we may develop for this critical habitat designation will also be available at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website and field office listed below, and may also be included in the preamble below and/or at http://www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Roxanna Hinzman, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, South Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 1339 20th Street, Vero Beach, Florida 32960-3559; telephone 772-562-3909. If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), call the Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Executive Summary
Why we need to publish a proposed rule. Under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (“Act”; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), when we determine that any species is an endangered or threatened species, we are required to designate critical habitat, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable. Designations of critical habitat can only be completed by issuing a rule.
What this document does. This document proposes a designation of critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat, an endangered species, in portions of 10 Florida counties.
The basis for our action. Under the Act, if we determine that a species is an endangered or threatened species we must, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable, designate critical habitat. Section 4(b)(2) of the Act states that the Secretary shall designate critical habitat on the basis of the best available scientific data after taking into consideration the economic impact, national security impact, and any other relevant impact of specifying any particular area as critical habitat
eatened species we must, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable, designate critical habitat. Section 4(b)(2) of the Act states that the Secretary shall designate critical habitat on the basis of the best available scientific data after taking into consideration the economic impact, national security impact, and any other relevant impact of specifying any particular area as critical habitat. The Secretary may exclude an area from critical habitat if he determines that the benefits of such exclusion outweigh the benefits of specifying such area as part of the critical habitat, unless he determines, based on the best scientific data available, that the failure to designate such area will result in the extinction of the species.
Economic analysis. We have prepared a draft analysis of the economic impacts of the proposed critical habitat designation. We are announcing the availability of the draft economic analysis (DEA) with the publication of this proposed rule and are seeking public review and comment on the DEA as well as on the proposed rule.
We are seeking peer review. We are seeking comments from independent specialists to ensure that our critical habitat proposal is based on scientifically sound data and analyses. We have invited these peer reviewers to comment on our specific assumptions and conclusions in this proposed rule.
Uncommon Acronyms Used in this Proposed Rule
For the convenience of the reader, listed below are some of the acronyms used in this proposed rule:
APAFR = Avon Park Air Force Range BCNP = Big Cypress National Preserve DoD = Department of Defense DHS = Department of Homeland Security ENP = Everglades National Park FLUCCS = Florida Land Use and Cover Classification System FNAI = Florida Natural Areas Inventory FPNWR = Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge FSPSP = Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park FWC = Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission IEM = incremental effects memorandum INRMP = integrated natural resources management plan PBFs = physical or biolog
rity ENP = Everglades National Park FLUCCS = Florida Land Use and Cover Classification System FNAI = Florida Natural Areas Inventory FPNWR = Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge FSPSP = Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park FWC = Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission IEM = incremental effects memorandum INRMP = integrated natural resources management plan PBFs = physical or biological features PSSF = Picayune Strand State Forest RCW = red-cockaded woodpecker ( Picoides borealis ) UF = University of Florida WMA = Wildlife Management Area Information Requested
We intend that any final action resulting from this proposed rule will be based on the best scientific data available and be as accurate and as
(1) The reasons why we should or should not designate habitat as “critical habitat” under section 4 of the Act including information to inform the following factors that the regulations identify as reasons why a designation of critical habitat may be not prudent:
(a) The species is threatened by taking or other human activity and identification of critical habitat can be expected to increase the degree of such threat to the species;
(b) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of a species' habitat or range is not a threat to the species, or threats to the species' habitat stem solely from causes that cannot be addressed through management actions resulting from consultations under section 7(a)(2) of the Act;
(c) Areas within the jurisdiction of the United States provide no more than negligible conservation value, if any, for a species occurring primarily outside the jurisdiction of the United States; or
(d) No areas meet the definition of critical habitat.
(2) Specific information on:
(a) The amount and distribution of Florida bonneted bat habitat.
(b) What may constitute “physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species,” within the geographical range currently occupied by the Florida bonneted bat.
g primarily outside the jurisdiction of the United States; or
(d) No areas meet the definition of critical habitat.
(2) Specific information on:
(a) The amount and distribution of Florida bonneted bat habitat.
(b) What may constitute “physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species,” within the geographical range currently occupied by the Florida bonneted bat.
(c) Where these features are currently found.
(d) Whether any of these features within areas we are proposing as critical habitat may require special management considerations or protection, including managing for the potential effects of climate change.
(e) What areas, that may be considered occupied at the time of listing and that contain the physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species, should be included in the designation.
(f) Whether occupied areas may be inadequate for the conservation of the species, and if so, we particularly seek comments regarding:
(i) What areas not occupied at the time of listing may be essential for the conservation of the species; and
(ii) Specific information regarding whether such unoccupied areas will, with reasonable certainty, contribute to the conservation of the species and contain at least one physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the species.
(g) Any additional areas occurring within the range of the species, i.e., south and central Florida, that should be included in the designation because they (1) are occupied at the time of listing and contain the physical and biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations, or (2) are unoccupied at the time of listing and are essential for the conservation of the species.
(h) Whether we have determined the most appropriate size and configuration of our proposed critical habitat units.
at the time of listing and contain the physical and biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations, or (2) are unoccupied at the time of listing and are essential for the conservation of the species.
(h) Whether we have determined the most appropriate size and configuration of our proposed critical habitat units.
(i) Whether any delineated area within the proposed critical habitat appears to be a result of occupancy data associated with artificial structures, and any support for the area's inclusion or omission. (Our analyses were based on habitat requirements, natural roosts, and presence data, and due to the species' large foraging distance, it is unlikely that any areas were included solely due to the presence of an artificial structure; nonetheless, we seek comment on this.)
(j) Whether artificial structures that provide roosting sites, particularly bat houses, and structures that may provide roost sites, such as bridges, may be essential for the conservation of the species and why.
(k) Whether agricultural lands that may provide foraging habitat are essential for the conservation of the species and why.
(3) Land use designations and current or planned activities ( e.g., proposed development, wind energy projects, etc.) in the subject areas and their possible impacts on the Florida bonneted bat and proposed critical habitat.
(4) Information on the projected and reasonably likely impacts of climate change on the Florida bonneted bat and proposed critical habitat.
(5) Any probable economic, national security, or other relevant impacts of designating any area that may be included in the final designation, and the related benefits of including or excluding areas that may be impacted.
(6) Information on the extent to which the description of probable economic impacts in the draft economic analysis is a reasonable estimate of the likely economic impacts.
.
(5) Any probable economic, national security, or other relevant impacts of designating any area that may be included in the final designation, and the related benefits of including or excluding areas that may be impacted.
(6) Information on the extent to which the description of probable economic impacts in the draft economic analysis is a reasonable estimate of the likely economic impacts.
(7) The likelihood of adverse social reactions to the designation of critical habitat and how the consequences of such reactions, if likely to occur, would relate to the conservation and regulatory benefits of the proposed critical habitat designation.
(8) Whether any specific areas we are proposing for critical habitat designation should be considered for exclusion under section 4(b)(2) of the Act, and whether the benefits of potentially excluding any specific area outweigh the benefits of including that area under section 4(b)(2) of the Act. We particularly seek comments regarding lands that could be considered for exclusion based on a conservation program or plan, and why. These may include Federal, Tribal, State, County, local, or private lands with permitted conservation plans covering the species in the area such as habitat conservation plans, safe harbor agreements, or conservation easements, or non-permitted conservation agreements and partnerships that would be encouraged by designation of, or exclusion from, critical habitat. Detailed information regarding these plans, agreements, easements, and partnerships is also requested, including:
(a) The location and size of lands covered by the plan, agreement, easement, or partnership;
(b) The duration of the plan, agreement, easement, or partnership;
(c) Who holds or manages the land;
(d) What management activities are conducted;
(e) What land uses are allowable; and
ailed information regarding these plans, agreements, easements, and partnerships is also requested, including:
(a) The location and size of lands covered by the plan, agreement, easement, or partnership;
(b) The duration of the plan, agreement, easement, or partnership;
(c) Who holds or manages the land;
(d) What management activities are conducted;
(e) What land uses are allowable; and
(f) If management activities are beneficial to the Florida bonnet bat and its habitat.
(9) Whether we could improve or modify our approach to designating critical habitat in any way to provide for greater public participation and understanding or to better accommodate public concerns and comments.
Because we will consider all comments and information we receive during the comment period, our final designation may differ from this proposal. Based on the new information we receive (and any comments on that new information), our final designation may not include all areas proposed, may include some additional areas, and may exclude some areas if we find the benefits of exclusion outweigh the benefits of inclusion. Such final decisions would be a logical outgrowth of this proposal, as long as: (1) We base the decisions on the best scientific and commercial data available and take into consideration the relevant impacts; (2) we articulate a rational connection between the facts found and the conclusions made, including why we changed our conclusion; and (3) we base removal of any areas on a determination either that the area does not meet the definition of “critical habitat” or that the benefits of excluding the area will outweigh the benefits of including it in the designation. You may submit your comments and materials concerning this ADDRESSES . We request that you send comments only by the methods described in ADDRESSES .
All comments submitted electronically via http://www.regulations.gov will be presented on the website in their entirety as submitted
habitat” or that the benefits of excluding the area will outweigh the benefits of including it in the designation. You may submit your comments and materials concerning this ADDRESSES . We request that you send comments only by the methods described in ADDRESSES .
All comments submitted electronically via http://www.regulations.gov will be presented on the website in their entirety as submitted. For comments submitted via hard copy, we will post your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—on http://www.regulations.gov. You may request at the top of your document that we withhold personal information such as your street address, phone number, or email address from public review; however, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
Comments and materials we receive, as well as supporting documentation we used in preparing this proposed rule, will be available for public inspection on http://www.regulations.gov, or by appointment, during normal business hours, at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, South Florida Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ).
Previous Federal Actions
Federal actions for the Florida bonneted bat prior to October 4, 2012, are outlined in our proposed listing rule for the bat (77 FR 60750), which was published on that date. On October 2, 2013, after consideration of available scientific information, and peer review and public comments on the proposed listing rule, we published a final rule listing the Florida bonneted bat as an endangered species (78 FR 61004).
Background
Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as:
(1) The specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species, at the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which are found those physical or biological features
(a) Essential to the conservation of the species, and
final rule listing the Florida bonneted bat as an endangered species (78 FR 61004).
Background
Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as:
(1) The specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species, at the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which are found those physical or biological features
(a) Essential to the conservation of the species, and
(b) Which may require special management considerations or protection; and
(2) Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it is listed, upon a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the species.
Conservation, as defined under section 3 of the Act, means to use and the use of all methods and procedures that are necessary to bring an endangered or threatened species to the point at which the measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer necessary. Such methods and procedures include, but are not limited to, all activities associated with scientific resources management such as research, census, law enforcement, habitat acquisition and maintenance, propagation, live trapping, and transplantation, and, in the extraordinary case where population pressures within a given ecosystem cannot be otherwise relieved, may include regulated taking.
Critical habitat receives protection under section 7 of the Act through the requirement that Federal agencies ensure, in consultation with the Service, that any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is not likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. The designation of critical habitat does not affect land ownership or establish a refuge, wilderness, reserve, preserve, or other conservation area. Such designation does not allow the government or public to access private lands. Such designation does not require implementation of restoration, recovery, or enhancement measures by non-Federal landowners
or adverse modification of critical habitat. The designation of critical habitat does not affect land ownership or establish a refuge, wilderness, reserve, preserve, or other conservation area. Such designation does not allow the government or public to access private lands. Such designation does not require implementation of restoration, recovery, or enhancement measures by non-Federal landowners. Where a landowner requests Federal agency funding or authorization for an action that may affect a listed species or critical habitat, the Federal agency would be required to consult with the Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Act. However, even if the Service were to conclude that the proposed activity would result in destruction or adverse modification of the critical habitat, the Federal action agency and the landowner are not required to abandon the proposed activity, or to restore or recover the species; instead, they must implement “reasonable and prudent alternatives” to avoid destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat.
Under the first prong of the Act's definition of critical habitat, areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it was listed are included in a critical habitat designation if they contain physical or biological features (1) which are essential to the conservation of the species and (2) which may require special management considerations or protection. For these areas, critical habitat designations identify, to the extent known using the best scientific and commercial data available, those physical or biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species (such as space, food, cover, and protected habitat)
re essential to the conservation of the species and (2) which may require special management considerations or protection. For these areas, critical habitat designations identify, to the extent known using the best scientific and commercial data available, those physical or biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species (such as space, food, cover, and protected habitat). In identifying those physical or biological features that occur in specific occupied areas, we focus on the specific features that are essential to support the life-history needs of the species, including, but not limited to, water characteristics, soil type, geological features, roost sites, prey, vegetation, symbiotic species, or other features. A feature may be a single habitat characteristic, or a more complex combination of habitat characteristics. Features may include habitat characteristics that support ephemeral or dynamic habitat conditions. Features may also be expressed in terms relating to principles of conservation biology, such as patch size, distribution distances, and connectivity.
Under the second prong of the Act's definition of critical habitat, we may designate critical habitat in areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it is listed, upon a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the species. On August 27, 2019, we published final revised regulations outlining the criteria for designating critical habitat (84 FR 45020). We stated that, when designating critical habitat, the Secretary will first evaluate areas occupied by the species. The Secretary will only consider unoccupied areas to be essential where a critical habitat designation limited to geographical areas occupied by the species would be inadequate to ensure the conservation of the species
ning the criteria for designating critical habitat (84 FR 45020). We stated that, when designating critical habitat, the Secretary will first evaluate areas occupied by the species. The Secretary will only consider unoccupied areas to be essential where a critical habitat designation limited to geographical areas occupied by the species would be inadequate to ensure the conservation of the species. In addition, for an unoccupied area to be considered essential, the Secretary must determine that there is a reasonable certainty both that the area will contribute to the conservation of the species and that the area contains one or more of those physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species.
Section 4 of the Act requires that we designate critical habitat on the basis of the best scientific data available. Further, our Policy on Information Standards Under the Endangered Species Act (published in the Federal Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34271)), the Information Quality Act (section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (Pub. L. 106-554; H.R. 5658)), and our associated Information Quality Guidelines, provide criteria, establish procedures, and provide guidance to ensure that our decisions are based on the best scientific data available. They require our biologists, to the extent consistent with the Act and with the use of the best scientific data available, to use primary and original sources of information as the basis for recommendations to designate critical habitat.
When we are determining which areas should be designated as critical habitat,
Habitat is dynamic, and species may move from one area to another over time. We recognize that critical habitat designated at a particular point in time may not include all of the habitat areas that we may later determine are necessary for the recovery of the species
for recommendations to designate critical habitat.
When we are determining which areas should be designated as critical habitat,
Habitat is dynamic, and species may move from one area to another over time. We recognize that critical habitat designated at a particular point in time may not include all of the habitat areas that we may later determine are necessary for the recovery of the species. For these reasons, a critical habitat designation does not signal that habitat outside the designated area is unimportant or may not be needed for recovery of the species. Areas that are important to the conservation of the species, both inside and outside the critical habitat designation, will continue to be subject to: (1) Conservation actions implemented under section 7(a)(1) of the Act, (2) regulatory protections afforded by the requirement in section 7(a)(2) of the Act for Federal agencies to ensure their actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened species, and (3) section 9 of the Act's prohibitions on taking any individual of the species, including taking caused by actions that affect habitat. Federally funded or permitted projects affecting listed species outside their designated critical habitat areas may still result in jeopardy findings in some cases. These protections and conservation tools will continue to contribute to recovery of this species. Similarly, critical habitat designations made on the basis of the best available information at the time of designation will not control the direction and substance of future recovery plans, habitat conservation plans (HCPs), or other species conservation planning efforts if new information available at the time of these planning efforts calls for a different outcome
e to recovery of this species. Similarly, critical habitat designations made on the basis of the best available information at the time of designation will not control the direction and substance of future recovery plans, habitat conservation plans (HCPs), or other species conservation planning efforts if new information available at the time of these planning efforts calls for a different outcome.
Prudency Determination
Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, as amended, and implementing regulations (50 CFR 424.12), require that, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable, the Secretary shall designate critical habitat at the time the species is determined to be an endangered or threatened species. Our regulations (50 CFR 424.12(a)(1)) state that the Secretary may, but is not required to, determine that a designation would not be prudent in the following circumstances:
(i) The species is threatened by taking or other human activity and identification of critical habitat can be expected to increase the degree of such threat to the species;
(ii) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of a species' habitat or range is not a threat to the species, or threats to the species' habitat stem solely from causes that cannot be addressed through management actions resulting from consultations under section 7(a)(2) of the Act;
(iii) Areas within the jurisdiction of the United States provide no more than negligible conservation value, if any, for a species occurring primarily outside the jurisdiction of the United States;
(iv) No areas meet the definition of critical habitat; or
stem solely from causes that cannot be addressed through management actions resulting from consultations under section 7(a)(2) of the Act;
(iii) Areas within the jurisdiction of the United States provide no more than negligible conservation value, if any, for a species occurring primarily outside the jurisdiction of the United States;
(iv) No areas meet the definition of critical habitat; or
(v) The Secretary otherwise determines that designation of critical habitat would not be prudent based on the best scientific data available.
We find that none of the aforementioned factors above apply to the Florida bonneted bat. First, there is currently no imminent threat of take attributed to collection for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes (see Factor B, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). However, humans often consider bats as “nuisance” species and seek their removal when they occur in or around human dwellings or infrastructure (see Factor D and Factor E, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). The Florida bonneted bat is at risk of take in the form of inadvertent or purposeful removal, displacement, and disturbance wherever it occurs in or near human dwellings or structures (see Factor D and Factor E, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Designation of critical habitat could result in an increased threat of taking of individuals in some areas, through publication of maps and a narrative description of specific habitat units in the Federal Register . However, this factor is not expected to appreciably increase the degree of threat to the species because it would presumably apply only to individuals under certain circumstances ( e.g., where bats are roosting in or near human dwellings or structures and where humans are intolerant of bat presence) where risks from humans already exist. Therefore, identification and mapping of critical habitat are not expected to initiate new threats or significantly increase existing threats
to the species because it would presumably apply only to individuals under certain circumstances ( e.g., where bats are roosting in or near human dwellings or structures and where humans are intolerant of bat presence) where risks from humans already exist. Therefore, identification and mapping of critical habitat are not expected to initiate new threats or significantly increase existing threats.
Additionally, while some threats to the species' habitat may stem from sea level rise or other effects of climate change that may not be addressed through management actions under section 7(a)(2), the Florida bonneted bat was listed as an endangered species due largely to both historical and ongoing habitat loss and degradation associated with development and agricultural practices. Therefore, actions causing this habitat loss and degradation may include those that can be addressed through management actions resulting from consultations under section 7(a)(2) of the Act ( e.g., loss of roost sites and foraging habitat, development associated with human population growth and agriculture; see especially Factor A and Factor E, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)).
Further, this species does not occur outside the United States, in fact its range is restricted to south and central Florida. Specific areas within this range meet the definition of critical habitat (see above), and the best scientific data available indicates a benefit of designating critical habitat.
The potential benefits of designation include: (1) Triggering consultation under section 7 of the Act in new areas for actions in which there may be a Federal nexus where it would not otherwise occur because, for example, it is or has become unoccupied or the occupancy is in question; (2) focusing conservation activities on the most essential features and areas; (3) providing educational benefits to State or county governments or private entities; and (4) reducing the inadvertent harm to the species caused by people
tions in which there may be a Federal nexus where it would not otherwise occur because, for example, it is or has become unoccupied or the occupancy is in question; (2) focusing conservation activities on the most essential features and areas; (3) providing educational benefits to State or county governments or private entities; and (4) reducing the inadvertent harm to the species caused by people.
Therefore, we find designation of critical habitat is prudent for the Florida bonneted bat.
Critical Habitat Determinability
Our regulations at 50 CFR 424.12(a)(2) state that critical habitat is not determinable when one or both of the following situations exist:
(i) Data sufficient to perform required analyses are lacking, or
(ii) The biological needs of the species are not sufficiently well known to identify any area that meets the definition of “critical habitat.”
In our proposed listing rule (77 FR 60750, October 4, 2012), we found that critical habitat was not determinable because the biological needs of the species were not sufficiently well known to permit identification of areas as critical habitat. Our final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013), summarized much of the new information and data that had been
Since that time, we have reviewed the available information pertaining to the biological needs of the species and habitat characteristics where the species is located. Substantial new scientific information has been obtained by researchers, agencies, conservation organizations, industry, and other partners. Where information gaps on the Florida bonneted bat remain, we rely on available information on other Eumops, other molossids (free-tailed bats), and other comparable bat species. To fulfill the requirements of the Act, we are now proposing the designation of critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat
en obtained by researchers, agencies, conservation organizations, industry, and other partners. Where information gaps on the Florida bonneted bat remain, we rely on available information on other Eumops, other molossids (free-tailed bats), and other comparable bat species. To fulfill the requirements of the Act, we are now proposing the designation of critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat.
Physical or Biological Features
In accordance with section 3(5)(A)(i) of the Act and regulations at 50 CFR 424.12(b), in determining which areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time of listing to designate as critical habitat, we consider the physical or biological features (PBFs) that are essential to the conservation of the species and which may require special management considerations or protection. The regulations at 50 CFR 424.02 define “physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species” as the features that occur in specific areas and that are essential to support the life-history needs of the species, including, but not limited to, water characteristics, soil type, geological features, sites, prey, vegetation, symbiotic species, or other features. A feature may be a single habitat characteristic, or a more complex combination of habitat characteristics. Features may include habitat characteristics that support ephemeral or dynamic habitat conditions. Features may also be expressed in terms relating to principles of conservation biology, such as patch size, distribution distances, and connectivity.
For example, physical features might include gravel of a particular size required for spawning, alkali soil for seed germination, protective cover for migration, or susceptibility to flooding or fire that maintains necessary early-successional habitat characteristics
e expressed in terms relating to principles of conservation biology, such as patch size, distribution distances, and connectivity.
For example, physical features might include gravel of a particular size required for spawning, alkali soil for seed germination, protective cover for migration, or susceptibility to flooding or fire that maintains necessary early-successional habitat characteristics. Biological features might include prey species, forage grasses, specific kinds or ages of trees for roosting or nesting, symbiotic fungi, or a particular level of nonnative species consistent with conservation needs of the listed species. The features may also be combinations of habitat characteristics and may encompass the relationship between characteristics or the necessary amount of a characteristic needed to support the life history of the species. In considering whether features are essential to the conservation of the species, the Service may consider an appropriate quality, quantity, and spatial and temporal arrangement of habitat characteristics in the context of the life-history needs, condition, and status of the species. These characteristics include, but are not limited to, space for individual and population growth and for normal behavior; food, water, air, light, minerals, or other nutritional or physiological requirements; cover or shelter; sites for breeding, reproduction, or rearing (or development) of offspring; and habitats that are protected from disturbance.
In general, important and basic components of bat conservation include: Protection of roosting habitat; protection of foraging habitat; and protection of the prey base (Humphrey 1975, pp. 321-346; Fenton 1997, entire; Pierson 1998, pp. 309-325; O'Donnell 2001, entire; Agosta 2002, pp. 188-193; Sparks et al. 2005, entire; Knight and Jones 2009, entire; Hagen and Sabo 2011, p. 759). Both the amount and spatial distribution of roosting and foraging habitat likely influence the survival and reproduction of Florida bonneted bats
bitat; and protection of the prey base (Humphrey 1975, pp. 321-346; Fenton 1997, entire; Pierson 1998, pp. 309-325; O'Donnell 2001, entire; Agosta 2002, pp. 188-193; Sparks et al. 2005, entire; Knight and Jones 2009, entire; Hagen and Sabo 2011, p. 759). Both the amount and spatial distribution of roosting and foraging habitat likely influence the survival and reproduction of Florida bonneted bats. Successful dispersal is likely essential to maintaining genetic and demographic connections among populations across the range of the species.
The ecology and long-term habitat requirements of the Florida bonneted bat are not fully understood (Robson 1989, p. 2; Robson et al. 1989, p. 81; Belwood 1992, p. 219; Timm and Genoways 2004, p. 859; Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, p. 240; 2018, p. 1121; Ober et al. 2016, p. 1; Bailey et al. 2017a, entire). Habitat for the bat mainly consists of foraging areas and roosting sites, including artificial structures. As of May 2019, researchers had found 19 natural roost sites in live trees and snags and determined that 6 roost trees had fallen or were too damaged for future use by bats, 3 were confirmed active, 3 were inactive, and 7 were unknown (Braun de Torrez, pers. comm. 2019a). Only very limited information on historical sites is available. Recent information on habitat has been obtained largely through: Acoustical surveys, designed to detect and record bat echolocation calls; limited tracking using radio-transmitters, GPS satellite tags, and other techniques; and other studies ( e.g., guano (excrement) analysis) (see Life History and Habitat, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)).
The Florida bonneted bat uses forests and a variety of other natural and developed areas, within south, southwest, and south-central Florida (see Life History, Habitat, and table 1, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013))
tags, and other techniques; and other studies ( e.g., guano (excrement) analysis) (see Life History and Habitat, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)).
The Florida bonneted bat uses forests and a variety of other natural and developed areas, within south, southwest, and south-central Florida (see Life History, Habitat, and table 1, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). They have been recorded in a wide array of habitat types, including: Pine flatwoods, pine rocklands, cypress, hardwood hammocks, mangroves, wetlands, rivers, lakes, ponds, canals, other natural areas, rural and agriculture lands, including groves, tropical gardens, crop-based agriculture; as well as residential and urban areas (Arwood, pers. comm., 2008a-b, 2012a, 2013a-c, 2014a-d; Marks and Marks 2008a, pp. 13-14; 2008b, pp. 2-5; 2008c, pp. 1-28; 2012, pp. 1-22; Smith 2010, entire; Snow, pers. comm., 2011a-b, 2012a-g, 2013; in litt. 2012; Owen, pers. comm., 2012; Rau, pers. comm. 2012; Maehr 2013, entire; Maehr, pers. comm., 2013a-b; Relish, pers. comm., 2013; Ridgley, pers. comm., 2013a-d; 2014a-c; Scofield, pers. comm., 2013a-f; Smith, pers. comm., 2013; Ober 2015, p. 3; Braun de Torrez, pers. comm., 2015a; Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, entire; Bailey et al. 2017a, entire). Florida bonneted bats at Big Cypress National Park (BCNP) are generally more active near places with permanent open water (Arwood, pers. comm., 2013c). At Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge (FPNWR), the species uses forested areas, open water, and wetlands (Maehr 2013, entire)
2015, p. 3; Braun de Torrez, pers. comm., 2015a; Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, entire; Bailey et al. 2017a, entire). Florida bonneted bats at Big Cypress National Park (BCNP) are generally more active near places with permanent open water (Arwood, pers. comm., 2013c). At Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge (FPNWR), the species uses forested areas, open water, and wetlands (Maehr 2013, entire).
We used a series of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) analyses to examine all available location data associated with Florida bonneted bat presences from 2003 through 2014 ( i.e., confirmed recorded call data (taken through acoustical devices), audible call data (heard by experts), and occupied bat houses) and land use/land coverages to better understand habitat use as described in the PBF discussion below (see also Habitat Analyses under Criteria Used to Identify Critical Habitat, below). Examining land coverages within 1.6 km (1 mi) around all confirmed presences suggested that wetland forest (35 percent), open freshwater wetland (16 percent), and wet shrub (11 percent) were the predominant habitat types used. A similar analysis using presence data from natural areas only and examining land covers within this same distance suggested that wetland forest (40 percent), open freshwater wetland (18 percent), wet shrub (13 percent), upland forest (11 percent), and upland shrub (5 percent) were the predominant habitat types used. Examination of habitat use i.e., west, southwest, southeast, and north-central Florida) reinforced the finding that forests are important habitat types, but suggested differences between geographic regions. For example, Florida bonneted bats may rely on wetland forests for roosting habitat in Collier County, but may rely on more upland forests for roosting in Charlotte County, where conditions are generally drier
abitat use i.e., west, southwest, southeast, and north-central Florida) reinforced the finding that forests are important habitat types, but suggested differences between geographic regions. For example, Florida bonneted bats may rely on wetland forests for roosting habitat in Collier County, but may rely on more upland forests for roosting in Charlotte County, where conditions are generally drier. Analysis of land covers within 1.6 km (1 mi) of the first known natural roost site (at Avon Park Air Force Range in Polk County) suggested that upland forest (61 percent) and upland shrub (30 percent) were key land cover types for roosting.
The analyses of land cover use described above were conducted shortly after the species' listing. New presence data, collected after these analyses through 2019, were found to be consistent with these earlier results.
Space for Individual and Population Growth and for Normal Behavior
At the time of listing, core areas for the Florida bonneted bat were identified that included areas with consistent use by, or repeated detections of, the species and thereby assumed to possess characteristics fundamental to the species' ecology and be important for conservation and recovery (see detailed discussion under Core Areas in the final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). These areas, representing the most important sites for the bat known at the time, are located within Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Monroe, and Miami-Dade Counties. Polk and Okeechobee Counties were also identified in the final listing rule as being occupied, but were not considered core areas, primarily because we lacked adequate survey information at the time. We now consider Polk County to be a core area based on several roost sites discovered at APAFR after listing (see Cover or Shelter, below; Angell and Thompson 2015, entire; Webb, pers. comm. 2018b; Myers, pers. comm. 2018a)
nties were also identified in the final listing rule as being occupied, but were not considered core areas, primarily because we lacked adequate survey information at the time. We now consider Polk County to be a core area based on several roost sites discovered at APAFR after listing (see Cover or Shelter, below; Angell and Thompson 2015, entire; Webb, pers. comm. 2018b; Myers, pers. comm. 2018a). New survey and life history information further support the identification of these core areas as those that are important for conservation and recovery of the Florida bonneted bat. We also identified these areas as important to the species in its recovery outline (a precursor to a recovery plan) (Service 2019, p. 2). Conservation of bat habitat within these core areas is necessary to ensure the species maintains sufficient resiliency, redundancy, and representation. As such, we consider suitable habitat within these core areas ( i.e., Polk, Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Monroe, and Miami-Dade Counties) to be essential to the conservation of the Florida bonneted bat.
The Florida bonneted bat needs suitable roosting habitat (for shelter, to rear young, for protection from predators) with limited disturbance, suitable foraging habitat, sufficient prey base (to meet its daily and seasonal dietary requirements and energy demands), and opportunities to disperse, exchange information, find mates, and reproduce for population growth. While much has been learned since listing about the species' roosting preferences, foraging behavior, habitat affinities, dispersal capabilities, and home ranges, not all aspects of these are clearly understood. In the largest and most comprehensive acoustic study undertaken for this species, bonneted bats were detected in all land cover types investigated, including the four major categories of uplands, wetlands, agricultural, and developed lands (Bailey et al. 2017a, entire)
, foraging behavior, habitat affinities, dispersal capabilities, and home ranges, not all aspects of these are clearly understood. In the largest and most comprehensive acoustic study undertaken for this species, bonneted bats were detected in all land cover types investigated, including the four major categories of uplands, wetlands, agricultural, and developed lands (Bailey et al. 2017a, entire).
In an analysis of land cover types within 1.6 km (1 mi) of the first four roosts discovered, we found high percentages of forested habitats around each of the four roost sites examined. As indicated above, land covers surrounding the roost site at APAFR in Polk County comprise 61 percent upland forest and 30 percent upland shrub. In Collier County, land cover types surrounding the roost at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park (FSPSP) are 97 percent wetland forest and 2 percent wetland shrub. Those surrounding the BCNP roost are 49 percent upland forest, 36 percent wetland forest, 11 percent wetland shrub, and 4 percent freshwater wetlands. Similarly, land cover types surrounding the FPNWR roost comprise 48 percent upland forest, 47 percent wetland forest, 3 percent open freshwater wetlands, and 2 percent shrub. Using this information regarding land cover types associated with roost sites, we identified specific habitat types within these cover types that are essential to the conservation of the Florida bonneted bat.
In natural areas, wetland and upland forests, open freshwater wetlands, wetland and upland shrub, and open water appear to be key habitat types. Natural areas provide better overall habitat ( e.g., adequate foraging habitat, less disturbance, more opportunities to disperse) than urban areas, and limited information suggests the species uses forested areas for roosting in natural habitats (see Cover or Shelter, below)
tland and upland forests, open freshwater wetlands, wetland and upland shrub, and open water appear to be key habitat types. Natural areas provide better overall habitat ( e.g., adequate foraging habitat, less disturbance, more opportunities to disperse) than urban areas, and limited information suggests the species uses forested areas for roosting in natural habitats (see Cover or Shelter, below). In general, open freshwater and wetlands, and other open natural habitats provide prime foraging areas for bats, providing important sources of water, concentrations of prey, and conditions and structure for finding and capturing prey. Bonneted bats use a “hawking” foraging method ( i.e., pursue and catch prey in flight), and are capable of traveling at fast speeds due to their specialized wing morphology. Molossids generally incur high metabolic costs while hunting aerial insects and are less suited for maneuvering in more confined spaces due to their long and narrow wings; efficient foraging may be restricted to open spaces, shortly after sunset when numbers of high-flying insects are sufficiently high (Voigt and Holderied 2012, pp. 415, 423). Consequently, this species relies on speed and agility to catch target insects in the absence of background clutter, such as dense vegetation (Simmons et al. 1979, entire; Belwood 1992, p. 221; Best et al. 1997, p. 5; Voigt and Holderied 2012, entire). Foraging in open spaces, bonneted bats use echolocation to detect prey at relatively long range and high above the ground (Belwood 1992, p. 221; Best et al. 1997, p. 5; Marks and Marks 2008a, p. 5; Mora and Torres 2008, p. 7). Due to the species' physiology, we have identified open areas of freshwater and natural habitats as a feature essential to the conservation of this bat
deried 2012, entire). Foraging in open spaces, bonneted bats use echolocation to detect prey at relatively long range and high above the ground (Belwood 1992, p. 221; Best et al. 1997, p. 5; Marks and Marks 2008a, p. 5; Mora and Torres 2008, p. 7). Due to the species' physiology, we have identified open areas of freshwater and natural habitats as a feature essential to the conservation of this bat.
Limited data ( i.e., from three bats, tracked for three nights each) indicated that bonneted bats generally stayed within 1.6 km (1 mi) of the bat houses on Babcock-Webb Wildlife Management Area (WMA) but had longer foraging bouts each evening, ranging from 2.4 to 11.3 km (1.5 to 7 mi) (Braun de Torrez, pers. comm. 2015a; Ober 2015, p. 3). While at the time of listing, foraging and dispersal distances and home range sizes for the Florida bonneted bat had not been studied in great detail (Gillies, in litt. 2012; G. Marks, pers. comm. 2012; Ober, in litt. 2012; Gore, pers. comm. 2013), additional studies have provided valuable insights (Ober 2016, entire; Webb, pers. comm. 2018a-b). The Florida bonneted bat flies considerable distances; individuals foraged far (39 km (24 mi) maximum) from capture sites and covered long distances in one night (91 km (56 mi) maximum) (Ober 2016, p. 3; Webb, pers. comm. 2018 2012;b). Given this, it seems likely that foraging areas may be located fairly long distances from roost sites (Ober, in litt. 2012). Further, the finding of only a few call sequences with substantial effort in close proximity to one known occupied active natural roost also suggests that bonneted bats may travel substantial distances from roosts and have very large home ranges. This finding aligns with relative et al. 2004, entire; Corbett et al. 2008, entire; Rhodes and Catterall 2008, entire; Bonaccorso 2010, p. 11; Koob 2012, p. 2; Noer et al. 2012, entire; Ober, pers. comm. 2013)
ubstantial effort in close proximity to one known occupied active natural roost also suggests that bonneted bats may travel substantial distances from roosts and have very large home ranges. This finding aligns with relative et al. 2004, entire; Corbett et al. 2008, entire; Rhodes and Catterall 2008, entire; Bonaccorso 2010, p. 11; Koob 2012, p. 2; Noer et al. 2012, entire; Ober, pers. comm. 2013). Based upon these characteristics and data, bonneted bats are expected to routinely range long distances, up to 24 km (15 mi) or more on foraging bouts, similar to the Underwood's mastiff bat ( E. underwoodi ) in Arizona (Tibbitts et al. 2002, p. 11; Gore, pers. comm. 2013). Consequently, we consider divergent areas for foraging and roosting as essential to the conservation of this bat.
Dispersal is important for bats for inbreeding avoidance, exploiting available resources, and maintaining a persisting population through changing landscapes. This aspect of their life history is particularly difficult to study, as the species is generally secretive, flies, and is nocturnal (Petit and Mayer 1999, p. 1717). Evidence of temporary emigration and disappearance of juveniles after 8 months suggests Florida bonneted bats disperse from natal roosts (Bailey et al. 2017b, p. 556). More research on the bat's specific needs during dispersal is needed; however, geographic distance and ecological barriers ( i.e., habitat fragmentation) are generally known to limit population expansion and gene flow within and among populations, and can block species movement required to adjust to environmental and habitat changes due to the dynamic nature of ecological systems, as well as habitat loss and climate change (Hilty et al. 2006, pp. 108-112). Consequently, we consider connectivity of suitable habitat necessary for natural and adaptive movements and thereby essential to the conservation of this species
in and among populations, and can block species movement required to adjust to environmental and habitat changes due to the dynamic nature of ecological systems, as well as habitat loss and climate change (Hilty et al. 2006, pp. 108-112). Consequently, we consider connectivity of suitable habitat necessary for natural and adaptive movements and thereby essential to the conservation of this species.
Food, Water, Air, Light, Minerals, or Other Nutritional or Physiological Requirements
The Florida bonneted bat's precise foraging habits and long-term requirements are unknown (Belwood 1992, p. 219). However, active year-round and aseasonally polyestrous ( i.e., having more than one period of estrous in a year, not restricted to one season) (Timm and Genoways 2004, p. 859; Marks and Marks 2008a, p. 9; Ober et al. 2016, entire), the Florida bonneted bat likely needs constant sources and/or multiple sources of prey to support its high metabolism. Energy demands of the bonneted bat probably fluctuate seasonally ( e.g., assumed higher demands during cold weather as it does not have periods of torpor (a state of decreased physiological activity in an animal, including decreased body temperature, heart rate, and metabolism)) and during sensitive times ( e.g., maternity, nursery, supporting offspring). The maternity season is a time of particular sensitivity, with increased energy demands and risks as females leave young in roosts while making multiple foraging excursions to support lactation (Kurta et al. 1989a, entire; Kurta et al. 1990, entire; Kunz et al. 1995, entire; Marks and Marks 2008a, pp. 8-9; Ober et al. 2016, entire). Exploitation of insects in patches that yield high-energy returns for pregnancy and lactation is important (Kunz et al. 1995, p. 412). Reduced insect populations in urban areas may make it difficult for females to successfully raise offspring to maturity (Kurta et al. 1990, entire; Kurta and Teramino 1992, p. 260)
Kunz et al. 1995, entire; Marks and Marks 2008a, pp. 8-9; Ober et al. 2016, entire). Exploitation of insects in patches that yield high-energy returns for pregnancy and lactation is important (Kunz et al. 1995, p. 412). Reduced insect populations in urban areas may make it difficult for females to successfully raise offspring to maturity (Kurta et al. 1990, entire; Kurta and Teramino 1992, p. 260).
Most insectivorous bats eat large quantities of insects (Ross 1967, entire; Black 1974, entire; Kunz 1974, entire; Kunz et al. 1995, entire; Kurta and Whitaker 1998, entire; Lee and McCracken 2002, pp. 306-313; 2005, entire; Leelapaibul et al. 2005, entire; Kunz et al. 2011, entire). Insectivorous bat activity and diversity are strongly correlated with arthropod abundance (Racey and Swift 1985, pp. 210-211, 214; Wickramasinghe et al. 2004, entire; Wickramasinghe et al. 2003, pp. 987-992), suggesting that bats seek out areas of concentrated prey sources (Kunz et al. 2011, p. 5). Foraging behavior is tied in part to insect abundance, availability, and density (Anthony and Kunz 1977, entire; Racey and Swift 1985, p. 212; Wickramasinghe et al. 2003, pp. 987-992; Wickramasinghe et al. 2004, entire). Exploitation of insects in patches that yield high-energy returns appears to be important for meeting the energy needs associated with prolonged flights as well as pregnancy and lactation (Kunz et al. 1995, p. 412). In general, bats foraging from continuous flight must encounter prey at relatively high rates and successfully attack many individual items (Fenton 1990, p. 416). Since Florida bonneted bats are thought to employ this feeding strategy, areas with higher insect abundance, more (multiple) prey sources, and diverse natural habitats that produce prey diversity are essential for suitable foraging habitat.
Like other molossids ( e.g., Brazilian free-tailed bats ( Tadarida brasiliensis )), the species may be a generalist predator, capable of opportunistically exploiting available resources (McCracken et al
ploy this feeding strategy, areas with higher insect abundance, more (multiple) prey sources, and diverse natural habitats that produce prey diversity are essential for suitable foraging habitat.
Like other molossids ( e.g., Brazilian free-tailed bats ( Tadarida brasiliensis )), the species may be a generalist predator, capable of opportunistically exploiting available resources (McCracken et al. 2012, entire). Limited information from guano analyses indicates Florida bonneted bats feed on flying insects of the following orders: Coleoptera (beetles), Diptera (flies), Hemiptera (true bugs), Lepidoptera (moths), and Trichoptera (caddisflies) (Belwood 1981, p. 412; 1992, p. 220; Marks 2013, entire; Marks and Marks 2015, pp. 2-3). Like other large molossids, the Florida bonneted bat's physiological characteristics ( e.g., large size, broad jaws, big teeth, large ears) and lower-frequency echolocation make it well-equipped for finding and taking relatively larger insects and harder prey items (Freeman 1979, entire; 1981, pp. 166-173; Obrist et al. 1993, entire; Aguirre et al. 2003, p. 207; Timm and Genoways 2004, pp. 855-857; Mora and Torres 2008, p. 12).
It is not clear if insect availability is limiting or sufficient; however, if the Florida bonneted bat is similar in its needs to other insectivorous bats, then reduced prey abundance or density could negatively affect the species, affecting survival, growth, and reproduction. We find that foraging habitat sufficient to support insect populations and the seasonal nutritional needs of the bat are essential to its conservation. Protecting natural habitats conducive to insect diversity (Marks 2013, p. 2) is also essential to the Florida bonneted bat's survival.
Sources of drinking water are important for most insectivorous bat species (Kurta et al. 1989b, entire; 1990, pp. 59, 63; Adams and Hayes 2008, pp. 1, 6)
o support insect populations and the seasonal nutritional needs of the bat are essential to its conservation. Protecting natural habitats conducive to insect diversity (Marks 2013, p. 2) is also essential to the Florida bonneted bat's survival.
Sources of drinking water are important for most insectivorous bat species (Kurta et al. 1989b, entire; 1990, pp. 59, 63; Adams and Hayes 2008, pp. 1, 6). Water sources and wetlands also provide important sources and concentrations of prey (Belwood and Fenton 1976, entire; Swift and Racey 1983, entire; Barclay 1991, pp. 174-176; Brigham et al. 1992, entire; Sullivan et al. 1993, entire; Racey et al. 1998, pp. 200-201; Russo and Jones 2003, pp. 197, 201; Nam et al. 2012, p. 1095; Wickramasinghe et al. 2004, p. 1289; Fukui et al. 2006, entire).
Water sources (for drinking, prey, and structure) are important habitat components for the Florida bonneted bat. This species forages over ponds, streams, and wetlands and drink when flying over open water (Marks and Marks 2008c, p. 4; 2008d, p. 3). For example, in BCNP the vast majority of Florida bonneted bat calls were recorded in 2014 at one remote pond surrounded by wetland forest (Arwood, pers. comm. 2014a-c). At Picayune Strand State Forest (PSSF), all sites where the species has been detected were located near canals (Smith, pers. comm. 2013). At FPNWR, the highest detection of Florida bonneted bat calls occurred in areas with the largest amount of open water (Maehr 2013, pp. 7-11; Maehr, pers. comm. 2013a-c). In the Miami area (Richmond pine
We find that open water and wetlands provide drinking water, open foraging areas, and concentrations of prey that are essential to the conservation of the species. During dry seasons, bats become more dependent on remaining ponds, streams, and wetland areas for foraging purposes, making these precious resources essential (Marks and Marks 2008c, p. 4; 2008d, p. 3)
In the Miami area (Richmond pine
We find that open water and wetlands provide drinking water, open foraging areas, and concentrations of prey that are essential to the conservation of the species. During dry seasons, bats become more dependent on remaining ponds, streams, and wetland areas for foraging purposes, making these precious resources essential (Marks and Marks 2008c, p. 4; 2008d, p. 3). Because the Florida bonneted bat, like other Eumops, appears to be confined to foraging in open spaces due to its wing morphology (Norberg and Rayner 1987, pp. 399-400; Voigt and Holderied 2012, entire), larger water bodies and more open wetlands in general may be better foraging habitat, structurally, than smaller, more confined areas.
The Florida bonneted bat's physiological or behavioral responses to abiotic factors, such as climate and artificial lighting, have not been specifically studied. Needs and requirements may be similar to those for other insectivorous species in semitropical or temperate environments. Light levels (and other environmental factors) trigger, in part, both the activity of bats and insects. Of factors influencing times of emergence in temperate bats, the overwhelming conclusion has been that light is the most important factor (Kunz 1974, p. 707). Artificial lighting ( i.e., ecological light pollution) can have demonstrable effects on behavioral and population ecology of organisms, including bats and insects (Longcore and Rich 2004, pp. 193-195; see Factor E, Ecological Light Pollution, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Therefore, we find that natural habitats that are largely devoid of artificial lighting are likely most conducive to bonneted bat conservation.
Similarly, temperature requirements and tolerances for the Florida bonneted bat are not fully understood. The species is active year-round and considered semi-tropical (Ober et al. 2016, entire). Bailey et al. (2017a, p
e (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Therefore, we find that natural habitats that are largely devoid of artificial lighting are likely most conducive to bonneted bat conservation.
Similarly, temperature requirements and tolerances for the Florida bonneted bat are not fully understood. The species is active year-round and considered semi-tropical (Ober et al. 2016, entire). Bailey et al. (2017a, p. 1589) detected bonneted bats at the northern portion of their study area ( i.e., Polk and Osceola Counties) and suggested future surveys in additional counties to help determine the limit of the northern extent of the range. They found low probabilities of occurrence of bonneted bats in areas where historical mean minimum temperatures dropped below 15 degrees Celsius (°C) (59 degrees Fahrenheit (°F)) and suggested that the species may be limited to southern Florida due to temperature (Bailey et al. 2017a, p. 1591). At this time, the most northern known roost sites are located at APAFR and vicinity (Angell and Thompson 2015, entire; Webb, pers. comm., 2018b; Myers, pers. comm., 2018a). Mean monthly temperatures at this location range from 15 to 28 °C (60-83 °F), with an average low of 8.3 °C (47 °F) (January) and an average high of 33.9 °C (93 °F) (July). Prolonged cold temperatures resulted in bonneted bat mortalities at one known colony site in North Fort Myers, Florida, during a severe cold snap in 2010 (Trokey, pers. comm. 2010a-b; 2012a) (see also Factor E, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Limited data at survey sites in south Florida indicated reduced bat activity under conditions of lower ambient temperatures (Arwood, pers. comm. 2014e). In general, molossids that inhabit the warmer temperate and subtropical zones incur much higher energetic costs for thermoregulation during cold weather events than those inhabiting northern regions (Arlettaz et al. 2000, pp. 1004-1014; see also Factor E, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013))
uced bat activity under conditions of lower ambient temperatures (Arwood, pers. comm. 2014e). In general, molossids that inhabit the warmer temperate and subtropical zones incur much higher energetic costs for thermoregulation during cold weather events than those inhabiting northern regions (Arlettaz et al. 2000, pp. 1004-1014; see also Factor E, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). As a result, we recognize the species' requirement of subtropical climate conditions for its long-term persistence.
This species is suspected to seasonally vary its use of the northern and southern extent of its known range. This may relate to temperature sensitivity (as described above), different nutritional needs during peak reproductive seasons, or changes in prey availability. Florida bonneted bat detection is positively influenced by Julian date and minimum temperature of the survey night; thus, future monitoring efforts should be focused on warm nights later in the spring to maximize detection probabilities (Bailey et al. 2017a, pp. 1589, 1591). Florida bonneted bats were also “more common in areas with higher historical mean annual rainfall but seemed to prefer areas with lower rainfall during the spring” (Bailey et al. 2017a, p. 1591). The authors concluded that higher detection probabilities observed were likely a result of increased insect abundance due to increased temperatures, humidity, and precipitation influencing the bats' activity (Bailey et al. 2017a, p. 1591). Therefore, we find that seasonal differences and these other climatological conditions, in addition to temperature, likely influence the species' distribution, habitat requirements, and foraging opportunities, thereby affecting its conservation. Differences in these environmental conditions may occur seasonally or on finer temporal scales.
Cover or Shelter
Bats spend over half their lives within their roost environments (Kunz 1982, p. 1)
and these other climatological conditions, in addition to temperature, likely influence the species' distribution, habitat requirements, and foraging opportunities, thereby affecting its conservation. Differences in these environmental conditions may occur seasonally or on finer temporal scales.
Cover or Shelter
Bats spend over half their lives within their roost environments (Kunz 1982, p. 1). Roosting sites for bats generally include both day and night roosts, and sites for various uses ( e.g., seasonal, maternity, nursery, bachelor roosts). Roosts provide sites for resting, digestion of food, social interaction, mating, rearing of young, as well as providing microclimate stability, protection from predators, and protection from sunlight and adverse weather (Kunz 1982, entire; Ormsbee et al. 2007, pp. 130-135; Marks and Marks 2008c, p. 4; Dechmann et al. 2010, pp. 1-7) (see also Sites for Breeding, Reproduction, or Rearing (or Development) of Offspring, below). In addition, roosts function as areas where information is shared among colony members for many species of bats ( e.g., the velvety free-tailed bat ( Molossus molossus ), see Dechmann et al. 2010, entire; Bohn, in litt. 2012).
The availability of suitable roosts is an important limiting factor for most bat species (Humphrey 1975, pp. 341-343). Suitable natural roost sites in south Florida appear limited, and competition for available tree cavities among native and non-native wildlife may be greater now than historically (see Factor E, Competition for Tree Cavities, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013); also Belwood 1992, p. 220; Kern, Jr., in litt. 2012; Ludlow, in litt. 2012). Consequently, retaining suitable roost structures (trees and snags with cavities or loose bark) throughout the species' range is fundamental to this species' conservation (Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, p. 240). Specifically, more roost structures may be needed to support dispersing subadult males (Ober et al. 2016, p. 7)
; also Belwood 1992, p. 220; Kern, Jr., in litt. 2012; Ludlow, in litt. 2012). Consequently, retaining suitable roost structures (trees and snags with cavities or loose bark) throughout the species' range is fundamental to this species' conservation (Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, p. 240). Specifically, more roost structures may be needed to support dispersing subadult males (Ober et al. 2016, p. 7).
Bats in south Florida roost primarily in trees and human-made structures (Marks and Marks 2008a, p. 8). Bonneted bats are closely associated with forested areas because of their tree-roosting habits, and old, mature trees are considered essential roosting sites (Robson 1989, p. 2; Belwood 1992, p. 220; Eger 1999, p. 132). However, specific information concerning roost sites was limited at the time of listing (see Use of Forests and Other Natural Areas, Habitat, and Life History, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). One of the few historical roost sites used by a small colony of Florida Pinus palustris ) cavity that had been excavated by a red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) ( Picoides borealis ) and later enlarged by a pileated woodpecker ( Dryocopus pileatus ); the cavity was 4.6 meters (m) (15.1 feet (ft)) above the ground (Belwood 1981, p. 412).
More recent information suggests that the Florida bonneted bat may prefer large pines (live and dead) with woodpecker activity for potential roosting, at least in some areas (Braun de Torrez, pers. comm. 2019b; Webb, pers. comm. 2017a). However, other large, tall trees with suitable structure ( e.g., hollows, loose bark) may also be suitable. The species has also been reported to use leaf shafts of royal palm ( Roystonea regia ) (Belwood 1992, p. 219) and rocky crevices and outcrops on the ground (Timm and Genoways 2004, p. 860; see Habitat, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Similar roosting habitats ( i.e., use of tree cavities, foliage of palms, crevices) have been reported for closely related species in other areas (Robson 1989, p
also been reported to use leaf shafts of royal palm ( Roystonea regia ) (Belwood 1992, p. 219) and rocky crevices and outcrops on the ground (Timm and Genoways 2004, p. 860; see Habitat, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Similar roosting habitats ( i.e., use of tree cavities, foliage of palms, crevices) have been reported for closely related species in other areas (Robson 1989, p. 2; Belwood 1992, pp. 219-220).
Since the species was listed in 2013, a total of 19 natural roosts have been located, of which 12 were found in pines (Angell and Thompson 2015, entire; Webb, pers. comm. 2017a; Braun de Torrez, pers. comm. 2019b). As of May 2019, of the 19 roosts found, 6 have fallen or are too damaged to house bats; however, we have used data collected from all known natural roosts to identify common essential features ( e.g., tree height, tree size, cavity height, tree species) (Scofield, pers. comm. 2013g-i; Angell and Thompson 2015, p. 185; Braun de Torrez, pers. comm. 2015b, 2016, 2019a-b; Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, p. 239; Hershberger, pers. comm. 2017; Webb, pers. comm. 2017a; Aldredge, pers. comm. 2018; Miller, pers. comm. 2018; Pitcher, pers. comm. 2019). Based on these natural roosts, Florida bonneted bats appear to roost in trees greater than 10 m (33 ft) in height, greater than 20 cm (8 in) diameter at breast height, with cavities greater than 5 m (16 ft) high off the ground (Braun de Torrez, pers. comm. 2019c).
The Florida bonneted bat also uses non-natural environments for roosting (see Use of Parks, Residential Areas, and other Urban Areas, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)) and artificial structures, particularly bat houses (Marks and Marks 2008a, p. 8; Morse 2008, entire; Trokey, pers. comm. 2012a-b; see Use of Artificial Structures (Bat Houses), final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013))
bonneted bat also uses non-natural environments for roosting (see Use of Parks, Residential Areas, and other Urban Areas, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)) and artificial structures, particularly bat houses (Marks and Marks 2008a, p. 8; Morse 2008, entire; Trokey, pers. comm. 2012a-b; see Use of Artificial Structures (Bat Houses), final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Many of the known active roosting sites for the species are bat houses (two at a private residence in Lee County; three to seven separate roosts at Babcock-Webb WMA in Charlotte County; seven at or near Zoo Miami in Miami-Dade County) (Myers, pers. comm. 2013a-b, 2014a-d; 2015; Gore, pers. comm. 2017, 2018; Ridgley, pers. comm. 2019).
Bonneted bats have also been found roosting in abandoned and occupied human dwellings in Miami-Dade County (Bohn, pers. comm. 2014; Zambrano, pers. comm. 2015; Hosein and Salazar 2017, entire). In 2017, several roosts were found by tracking tagged bonneted bats; all of these were located in abandoned and occupied houses in urban Miami (Webb, pers. comm. 2017b-e). Another roost was found by tracking a bonneted bat back to a 50 60-ft high utility pole in Polk County (Webb, pers. comm. 2017a). Historically, bonneted bats had been documented to use buildings and barrel tile roofs (Jennings 1958, p. 102; Belwood 1992, pp. 219-220). In Coral Gables, tracked bonneted bats were using utility poles, chimneys, pine trees, and royal palms, but were not found using barrel tile roosts in limited observations (Gore et al. 2015, entire). Particularly in urban and suburban areas (see Use of Parks, Residential Areas, and other Urban Areas, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)), the Florida bonneted bat may use bridges, buildings, rock crevices, and other structures resembling natural molossid roosts (Wilkins 1989, pp. 5-6; Milner et al. 1990, p. 3; Best et al. 1996, p. 5; Best et al. 1997, p. 4; Keeley and Tuttle 1999, pp. 9, 28; Avila-Flores and Fenton 2005, entire; Marks and Marks, pers
l Areas, and other Urban Areas, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)), the Florida bonneted bat may use bridges, buildings, rock crevices, and other structures resembling natural molossid roosts (Wilkins 1989, pp. 5-6; Milner et al. 1990, p. 3; Best et al. 1996, p. 5; Best et al. 1997, p. 4; Keeley and Tuttle 1999, pp. 9, 28; Avila-Flores and Fenton 2005, entire; Marks and Marks, pers. comm. 2008; Gore et al. 2015).
More research on the role of bat houses in the conservation of the species is needed (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) 2013, pp. 11-12). The use of such structures by the Florida bonneted bat may be beneficial in some locations, especially where cavity trees are limiting. However, artificial structures may not be sufficient replacements for natural roosts ( e.g., existing dead or hollow trees) due to site fidelity and specific roosting requirements (Ormsbee et al. 2007, p. 145). Artificial structures may be more likely to be disturbed, may be more prone to vandalism, and may or may not be maintained.
The Florida bonneted bat is suspected to have high roost site fidelity. For example, one natural roost at APAFR remained active (with some periods of inactivity, once due to a nesting northern flicker taking over the cavity) for more than 5 years (Scofield, pers. comm. 2013g-h; 2014a-b; Angell and Thompson 2015, p. 186; Myers, pers. comm. 2018b, Aldredge, pers. comm. 2019a). Several bat houses at Babcock-Webb WMA have been occupied by bonneted bats since 2008 (Myers, pers. comm. 2013a), and a roost in an abandoned house remained active for 20 years (likely with some periods of inactivity), even after an exclusion was conducted (Bohn, pers. comm. 2014; Hosein, pers. comm. 2016; Webb, pers. comm. 2017d; Gore et al. 2015, p. 183). The loss of a roost site may cause greater hardship to this species than the loss of a roost site for other, less site-faithful species (Ober, in litt. 2012)
a roost in an abandoned house remained active for 20 years (likely with some periods of inactivity), even after an exclusion was conducted (Bohn, pers. comm. 2014; Hosein, pers. comm. 2016; Webb, pers. comm. 2017d; Gore et al. 2015, p. 183). The loss of a roost site may cause greater hardship to this species than the loss of a roost site for other, less site-faithful species (Ober, in litt. 2012).
Roost sites are clearly vital resources for this species, and the protection of natural and artificial roost sites in natural areas is essential. Due to the dynamic nature of ecological processes ( e.g., growth and regeneration of forests), forests of different age-classes are needed to ensure that the bat continues to have sufficient roost sites over time. In forested and other natural areas, old, large, mature trees (live or dead) with cavities, hollows, or loose bark provide important natural roosts. Known active roosts include several artificial structures (bat houses), but their capacity to perform all functions of natural roosts is unknown. Therefore, we find that the characteristics and features of natural roost sites are essential for Florida bonneted bat conservation.
Sites for Breeding, Reproduction, or Rearing (or Development) of Offspring
As with other aspects of Florida bonneted bat biology, precise site requirements and habitat conditions for successful reproduction and growth are not fully understood. Most natural behaviors related to breeding, reproduction, and carrying for young occur within the Florida bonneted bats' roosts. Optimal roosting habitat depends upon suitable structures ( e.g., tree cavities and hollows) (see Cover or Shelter, above), but it is at least partly tied to other factors, such as position in the landscape ( e.g., nearby foraging habitat, water sources) (see Space for Individual and Population Growth and for Normal Behavior, above). Access to sufficient foraging habitat is also critical for the rearing of young (Marks and Marks 2008c, p
table structures ( e.g., tree cavities and hollows) (see Cover or Shelter, above), but it is at least partly tied to other factors, such as position in the landscape ( e.g., nearby foraging habitat, water sources) (see Space for Individual and Population Growth and for Normal Behavior, above). Access to sufficient foraging habitat is also critical for the rearing of young (Marks and Marks 2008c, p. 4; see Food, Water, Air, Light, Minerals, or Other Nutritional or Physiological Requirements, above).
Sites supporting the Florida bonneted bats' breeding activities appear to be required year-round (Timm and Genoways 2004, p. 859; Ober et al. 2016, p. 8; Bailey et al. 2017b, p. 556; see Life History, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013); see Food, above). Adults are reproductively active during all three capture sessions (August, December, and April), and non-volant (not capable of flying) pups were found in roosts from May through December (Ober et al. 2016, pp. 6, 8-9; Gore, pers. comm. 2017; Scofield, pers. comm. 2014b; Angell and Thompson 2015, p. 186; Myers, pers. comm. 2018a; Ridgley, pers. comm. 2015). In the first work on providing demographic estimates for the Florida bonneted bat, Bailey et al. (2017b, entire) suggested that recruitment is occurring year-round.
This species' long reproductive season makes non-volant bonneted bats more vulnerable to disturbance for a greater portion of each year, compared to other bat species (Ober et al. 2016, p. 8). For example, Florida bonneted bat pups were considered to be very likely present in bat houses during April 16-August 15, and quite possibly present from August 15 through December 31 in bat houses at Babcock-Webb WMA (Gore, pers. comm. 2017). Pups were not likely to be present from January 1 through April 15 (Gore, pers. comm. 2017). Based upon these data, flightless young bonneted bats are vulnerable to disturbance for nearly 9 months of the year in the Charlotte County area
in bat houses during April 16-August 15, and quite possibly present from August 15 through December 31 in bat houses at Babcock-Webb WMA (Gore, pers. comm. 2017). Pups were not likely to be present from January 1 through April 15 (Gore, pers. comm. 2017). Based upon these data, flightless young bonneted bats are vulnerable to disturbance for nearly 9 months of the year in the Charlotte County area. This duration may be further extended in southern portions of the range or curtailed in northern portions of the range.
Most roosting bats are sensitive to human disturbance (Kunz 1982, p. 32), and maternity colonies may be especially intolerant of disturbance (Harvey et al. 1999, p. 13; see Factor E, Inadvertent and Purposeful Impacts from Humans, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). For many species, maternity roosts are commonly used as night roosts by lactating females and newly volant (capable of flying) young (see details in Kunz 1982, p. 39). Due to the apparent limitations in flight for pregnant and lactating females and newly volant young, retaining suitable night roosts and maternity roosts is especially important.
In addition, in a new study examining social organization at bat houses at Babcock-Webb WMA, researchers found the species roosted in relatively small groups, with an average size of 10 individuals, in a harem structure (Ober et al. 2016, p. 7). The finding of a harem structure is particularly relevant from a conservation standpoint for several reasons, as it suggests: (1) The importance of males and maintenance of social groups; (2) that disturbance of the roost at any time can alter social dynamics and impact reproductive success; (3) that augmenting the number of available small roost sites may be necessary to bolster populations (since harem structure may mean small colony sizes, defensible by a dominant male); and (4) additional roost structures may be necessary for dispersing sub-adult males attempting to establish new harems (Ober et al. 2016, p. 7)
at any time can alter social dynamics and impact reproductive success; (3) that augmenting the number of available small roost sites may be necessary to bolster populations (since harem structure may mean small colony sizes, defensible by a dominant male); and (4) additional roost structures may be necessary for dispersing sub-adult males attempting to establish new harems (Ober et al. 2016, p. 7). Based on the information outlined above, we find that suitable roosting habitat is a year-round necessity for the breeding and rearing of offspring and required for the conservation of this species.
Habitats Protected From Disturbance or Otherwise Representative of the Historical Geographical and Ecological Distributions of the Species
The Florida bonneted bat occurs in habitats that are protected from human-generated disturbances. These include Federal, State, local, and private conservation lands and other private (non-conservation) lands that retain natural areas and implement conservation measures benefitting the species. Babcock-Webb WMA and APAFR are two examples of such areas, both supporting populations with known roosting and reproduction. These properties, each approximately 40,470 ha (100,000 ac), represent relatively functional ecosystems, and buffer wildlife from human-related threats and threatening processes. The species does appear somewhat tolerant of some level of human disturbances, the extent to which is unknown. For example, APAFR is an active military base, where bonneted bats are exposed to disturbances such as periodic missions and training exercises, some within a mile of roosts (Aldredge, pers. comm. 2019b). Similarly, individuals occupying bat houses at Babcock-Webb WMA are exposed to, and apparently tolerant of, active land management and recreational activities ( e.g., prescribed fire, hunting)
n. For example, APAFR is an active military base, where bonneted bats are exposed to disturbances such as periodic missions and training exercises, some within a mile of roosts (Aldredge, pers. comm. 2019b). Similarly, individuals occupying bat houses at Babcock-Webb WMA are exposed to, and apparently tolerant of, active land management and recreational activities ( e.g., prescribed fire, hunting). The species also occurs in agricultural areas and in urban, suburban, and residential areas (see Use of Parks, Residential Areas, and Other Urban Areas, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). We conclude, however, that large patches of habitat, which are relatively free of human disturbances, are necessary for the stability of core populations, and therefore essential to the conservation of this species. Specifically, based on Florida bonneted bats' heavy use of Babcock-Webb WMA and APAFR, we consider areas of habitat 40,470 ha (100,000 ac) or greater as essential to the conservation of this species.
More specifically, the Florida bonneted bat is dependent upon tall, mature trees and dynamic forest processes ( e.g., growth, decay, regeneration, openings in the canopy, natural fire regimes, and other disturbances such as storms that contribute to roosting structures or make habitat accessible). Healthy forested areas with trees of various age classes and natural processes ( i.e., allowing for trees to grow, mature, decay, and regenerate) help provide the necessary continual supply of potential roosting structure ( e.g., day roosts, night roosts, maternity sites). Other natural habitats with open or semi-open canopy, canopy gaps, and edges help provide open space and relatively uncluttered conditions conducive to foraging, commuting, and general flight. Natural habitat types with diverse plant communities help provide a sufficient prey base and conditions for foraging, dispersal, and other life-history functions
, day roosts, night roosts, maternity sites). Other natural habitats with open or semi-open canopy, canopy gaps, and edges help provide open space and relatively uncluttered conditions conducive to foraging, commuting, and general flight. Natural habitat types with diverse plant communities help provide a sufficient prey base and conditions for foraging, dispersal, and other life-history functions. Both natural disturbances ( e.g., fire and storms) and land management actions ( e.g., prescribed fire) help maintain overall habitat suitability and suitable conditions ( e.g., structure). Braun de Torrez et al. (2018, entire) suggest that bats are attracted to increased availability of insect prey immediately following burns. Based upon their research, they suggest that prescribed fire can have short-term positive effects on bonneted bats and that restoring fire to fire-dependent forests may improve foraging habitat for the species (Braun de Torrez et al. 2018, entire). Therefore, we find that fire and other natural disturbance regimes maintain suitable habitat conditions and are essential to the conservation of this species.
Retaining natural habitats will become more important in the future with the anticipated habitat losses from development, climate change, and coastal squeeze, which occurs when habitat is pressed between rising sea levels and coastal development that prevents landward movement (see Factor A, Land Use Changes and Human Population Growth, Climate Change and Sea Level Rise, Alternative Future Landscape Models and Coastal Squeeze, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). The conditions of forests, wetlands, and other land covers are likely to be under increased development pressures and be affected by large-scale changes in climate in the future. Changing habitat conditions due to changes in climate and responses by humans may make the bonneted bat shift from its current range, possibly moving inland or north (Rebelo et al. 2010, entire; Sherwin et al. 2012, entire; S. Wolf and J
f forests, wetlands, and other land covers are likely to be under increased development pressures and be affected by large-scale changes in climate in the future. Changing habitat conditions due to changes in climate and responses by humans may make the bonneted bat shift from its current range, possibly moving inland or north (Rebelo et al. 2010, entire; Sherwin et al. 2012, entire; S. Wolf and J. Lopez, in litt. 2012). One et al. 2014, p. 28). Similarly, work by Bailey et al. (2017a, entire) also suggests that predicted changes in land cover ( i.e., urbanization of the majority of natural and agricultural lands in south, south-central, and southwest Florida) and climate will be threats to the species. We have attempted to account for these influences in our proposed designation of critical habitat by recognizing that habitat composition may change beyond the range of historical variation, and that climate changes may have unpredictable consequences for both peninsular Florida and bonneted bats. This proposed critical habitat designation recognizes that forest management and general land management practices that promote ecosystem health under changing climate conditions will be important for bonneted bat conservation.
Summary of Essential Physical or Biological Features
We derived the specific PBFs essential for the Florida bonneted bat from observations and available studies of this species' habitat, ecology, and life history as described above (see also Life History and Habitat, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Where specific information was lacking or deficient, we relied on expert opinion and inferences based upon information from other Eumops, other molossids, or other comparable species ( e.g., other fast-hawking insectivorous bats) as described above. Additional information can be found in the proposed and final listing rules (77 FR 60750, October 4, 2012; 78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)
er 2, 2013)). Where specific information was lacking or deficient, we relied on expert opinion and inferences based upon information from other Eumops, other molossids, or other comparable species ( e.g., other fast-hawking insectivorous bats) as described above. Additional information can be found in the proposed and final listing rules (77 FR 60750, October 4, 2012; 78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013). We have determined that the following physical or biological features are essential to the conservation of the Florida bonneted bat:
(1) Representative forest types (all age classes) that support the Florida bonneted bat by providing roosting and foraging habitat within its core areas ( i.e., Polk, Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Monroe, and Miami-Dade Counties), including:
(a) Pine flatwoods;
(b) Scrubby pine flatwoods;
(c) Pine rocklands;
(d) Royal palm hammocks;
(e) Mixed or hardwood hammocks;
(f) Cypress;
(g) Mixed or hardwood wetlands;
(h) Mangroves (mature and pristine);
(i) Cabbage palms; and
(j) Sand pine scrub.
(2) Habitat that provides for roosting and rearing of offspring; such habitat provides structural features for rest, digestion of food, social interaction, mating, rearing of young, protection from sunlight and adverse weather conditions, and cover to reduce predation risks for adults and young, and includes forest and other areas with tall or mature trees and other natural areas with suitable structures, which are generally characterized by:
(a) Tall or mature live or dead trees, tree snags, and trees with cavities, hollows, crevices, or loose bark, including, but not limited to, trees greater than 10 m (33 ft) in height, greater than 20 cm (8 in) diameter at breast height, with cavities greater than 5 m (16 ft) high off the ground;
(b) High incidence of tall or mature live trees with various deformities ( e.g., large cavities, hollows, broken tops, loose bark, and other evidence of decay);
with cavities, hollows, crevices, or loose bark, including, but not limited to, trees greater than 10 m (33 ft) in height, greater than 20 cm (8 in) diameter at breast height, with cavities greater than 5 m (16 ft) high off the ground;
(b) High incidence of tall or mature live trees with various deformities ( e.g., large cavities, hollows, broken tops, loose bark, and other evidence of decay);
(c) Sufficient open space for Florida bonneted bats to fly; areas may include open or semi-open canopy, canopy gaps and edges, or above the canopy, which provide relatively uncluttered conditions; and/or
(d) Rock crevices.
(3) Habitat that provides for foraging, which may vary widely across the Florida bonneted bat's range, in accordance with ecological conditions, seasons, and disturbance regimes that influence vegetation structure and prey species distributions. Foraging habitat may be separate and relatively far distances from roosting habitat. Foraging habitat consists of:
(a) Sources for drinking water and prey, including open fresh water and permanent or seasonal freshwater wetlands, in natural or rural areas (non-urban areas);
(b) Wetland and upland forests, open freshwater wetlands, and wetland and upland shrub (which provide a prey base and suitable foraging conditions ( i.e., open habitat structure));
(c) Natural or semi-natural habitat patches in urban or residential areas that contribute to prey base and provide suitable foraging conditions ( i.e., open habitat structure); and/or
rural areas (non-urban areas);
(b) Wetland and upland forests, open freshwater wetlands, and wetland and upland shrub (which provide a prey base and suitable foraging conditions ( i.e., open habitat structure));
(c) Natural or semi-natural habitat patches in urban or residential areas that contribute to prey base and provide suitable foraging conditions ( i.e., open habitat structure); and/or
(d) The presence and abundance of the bat's prey ( i.e., large, flying insects), in sufficient quantity, availability, and diversity necessary for reproduction, development, growth, and survival.
(4) A dynamic disturbance regime (natural or artificial) ( e.g., fire, hurricanes) that maintains and regenerates forested habitat, including plant communities, open habitat structure, and temporary gaps, which is conducive to promoting a continual supply of roosting sites, prey items, and suitable foraging conditions.
(5) Large patches (more than 40,470 ha (100,000 ac)) of forest and associated natural or semi-natural habitat types that represent functional ecosystems with a reduced influence from humans ( i.e., areas that shield the bat from human disturbance, artificial lighting, habitat loss and degradation).
(6) Corridors, consisting of roosting and foraging habitat, that allow for population maintenance and expansion, dispersal, and connectivity among and between geographic areas for natural and adaptive movements, including those necessitated by climate change.
duced influence from humans ( i.e., areas that shield the bat from human disturbance, artificial lighting, habitat loss and degradation).
(6) Corridors, consisting of roosting and foraging habitat, that allow for population maintenance and expansion, dispersal, and connectivity among and between geographic areas for natural and adaptive movements, including those necessitated by climate change.
(7) A subtropical climate that provides tolerable conditions for the species, such that normal behavior, successful reproduction, and rearing of offspring are possible.
Special Management Considerations or Protection
When designating critical habitat, we assess whether the specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time of listing contain features which are essential to the conservation of the species and which may require special management considerations or protection. The recovery of the Florida bonneted bat requires both habitat protection and management, where necessary, to provide sufficient high-quality habitat to allow for population growth and to provide a buffer against threats such as habitat loss, climate change, coastal squeeze, and other threats (see especially Factor A and Factor E, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). The Service has not drafted a recovery plan for the Florida bonneted bat, but any such plan will likely focus on maintaining and expanding suitable roosting, foraging, and dispersal habitat throughout the species' range and reducing threats. Meeting this goal will require special management considerations or protection of the PBFs including passive ( e.g., allowing natural processes to occur without intervention) and active ( e.g., taking actions to restore habitat conditions or address threats) management.
The types of management or protections that may be required to achieve these goals and maintain the PBFs essential to the conservation of the Florida bonneted bat in occupied areas vary across the range of the species
including passive ( e.g., allowing natural processes to occur without intervention) and active ( e.g., taking actions to restore habitat conditions or address threats) management.
The types of management or protections that may be required to achieve these goals and maintain the PBFs essential to the conservation of the Florida bonneted bat in occupied areas vary across the range of the species. In some areas of bat habitat, particularly in wetland forests, open freshwater wetlands, and areas of open water, efforts may need to focus primarily on protection of the essential features ( e.g., habitat conservation, conserving trees
The PBFs essential to the conservation of this species may require special management considerations or protection to reduce the following threats:
Habitat Loss
Habitat loss, degradation, and modification from human population growth and associated development (including infrastructure and energy development) and agriculture have impacted the Florida bonneted bat and are expected to further curtail its limited range (see Factor A, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013); Bailey et al. 2017a, entire). Based on the expected rates of human population growth and urbanization in southern Florida, nearly all agricultural and private natural lands are predicted to be converted to developed land by 2060 (Zwick and Carr 2006). Of this, approximately 7.5 percent of the area in our proposed units (over 44,718 ha (110,500 ac)) are predicted to be converted to developed land by 2070 (Carr and Zwick 2016, entire). The species occurs, in part, on publicly owned lands that are managed for conservation, ameliorating some of these threats (see Document Availability, Supporting Documents, above). However, any unknown extant populations of the bat or suitable habitat on private lands or non-conservation public lands are vulnerable to habitat loss and fragmentation
loped land by 2070 (Carr and Zwick 2016, entire). The species occurs, in part, on publicly owned lands that are managed for conservation, ameliorating some of these threats (see Document Availability, Supporting Documents, above). However, any unknown extant populations of the bat or suitable habitat on private lands or non-conservation public lands are vulnerable to habitat loss and fragmentation. Retaining a habitat network of large and diverse natural areas for conservation purposes in a spatial configuration throughout the Florida bonneted bat's range and actively managing those lands will likely be essential to conservation. In addition, conservation efforts on private lands can help reduce the threats of habitat loss, increasing the potential for long-term survival.
Natural roosting habitat appears to be limiting, and competition for tree cavities is high (see Factor E, Competition for Tree Cavities, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). To help conserve the Florida bonneted bat, efforts should be made to retain tall trees, cavity trees, trees with hollows or other decay, and snags wherever possible to protect habitat, reduce competition for suitable roosts, and bolster or expand populations within the species' known range (Angell and Thompson 2015, p. 187; Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, pp. 235, 240; Ober et al. 2016, p. 7). The use of artificial structures for the Florida bonneted bat may also be beneficial in some locations, especially where roosting structures are lacking or deficient (see Use of Artificial Structures (Bat Houses), final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)).
Substantial losses in suitable foraging habitats are expected to occur in the coming decades as natural and agricultural areas are converted to other uses and as areas become urbanized (Carr and Zwick 2016, entire; Bailey et al. 2017a, p. 1591). Conservation of natural and semi-natural habitats and restoration with native plants is imperative to help maintain sufficient prey base
ober 2, 2013)).
Substantial losses in suitable foraging habitats are expected to occur in the coming decades as natural and agricultural areas are converted to other uses and as areas become urbanized (Carr and Zwick 2016, entire; Bailey et al. 2017a, p. 1591). Conservation of natural and semi-natural habitats and restoration with native plants is imperative to help maintain sufficient prey base. Natural habitats conducive to insect diversity should be protected and any pesticides should be used with caution (see Life History, and Factor E, Pesticides and Contaminants, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)).
Climate Change and Sea-Level Rise
The effects resulting from climate change, including sea-level rise, saltwater intrusion, and coastal squeeze, are expected to become severe in the future and result in additional habitat losses, including the loss of roost sites and foraging habitat (see Factor A, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013). Within the species' range, low-lying areas along the coast are most vulnerable to inundation, and additional areas are likely to experience changes in plant species composition (decline in forested habitat such as cabbage palm forests, pine rockland, and coastal hardwood hammocks). Occupied Florida bonneted bat habitat located near the coast in south Florida ( e.g., Collier, Lee, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Charlotte, Desoto, and Sarasota Counties) will be vulnerable to inundation and/or saltwater intrusion as sea levels rise. An estimated 16.4 percent (97,832 ha (241,748 ac)) of the occupied habitat area we propose for designation is projected to be inundated by 6 feet of salt water around 2070 (sea level rise plus tidal flooding; Sweet et al. 2017, entire; Sweet et al. 2018, entire; Sweet et al. 2019, entire)
Desoto, and Sarasota Counties) will be vulnerable to inundation and/or saltwater intrusion as sea levels rise. An estimated 16.4 percent (97,832 ha (241,748 ac)) of the occupied habitat area we propose for designation is projected to be inundated by 6 feet of salt water around 2070 (sea level rise plus tidal flooding; Sweet et al. 2017, entire; Sweet et al. 2018, entire; Sweet et al. 2019, entire). Although we are unable to accurately estimate the extent of other climate change-related effects, we expect additional occupied habitat will be impacted by saltwater intrusion, drier conditions, and increased variability in precipitation, likely resulting in changes to vegetation composition and prey availability, decreased forest regeneration, and potential increases in wildfire frequency, severity, and scale (see Factor A, Land Use Changes and Human Population Growth, Climate Change and Sea Level Rise, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). The trend toward higher temperatures and lower rainfall (or shifts in rainfall patterns) could result in the degradation of wetlands and other important open-water habitats, or complete loss of affected foraging areas if drought-like conditions persist. Actual impacts may be greater or less than anticipated based upon high variability of factors involved ( e.g., sea-level rise, human population growth) and assumptions made.
As a result of these impacts and other causes of habitat loss and degradation, PBFs may no longer be available in some areas, and the amount of suitable occupied Florida bonneted bat habitat is likely to shrink dramatically in the future. Habitat loss from sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion will be greatest in areas closer to the coast and is likely to result in the loss of some bonneted bat populations, such as those in eastern Miami-Dade County, reducing the species' ability to withstand catastrophic events ( i.e., redundancy)
nt of suitable occupied Florida bonneted bat habitat is likely to shrink dramatically in the future. Habitat loss from sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion will be greatest in areas closer to the coast and is likely to result in the loss of some bonneted bat populations, such as those in eastern Miami-Dade County, reducing the species' ability to withstand catastrophic events ( i.e., redundancy). We anticipate additional populations near the coast will be reduced in size, such as those in Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Monroe, and remaining areas in Miami-Dade Counties, resulting in decreased overall health and fitness ( i.e., resiliency) of those populations. Further, most of the remaining bat populations face similar threats and pressures ( e.g., development pressure, effects of climate change, coastal squeeze, droughts, hurricanes) that are expected to reduce their resiliency. This limits the species' ability to recover from population declines, when many populations are similarly affected. However, we lack certainty as to the severity of impacts the effects of sea level rise may have on the bat's critical habitat.
Directly addressing sea-level rise is beyond the control of landowners or managers. However, while landowners or land managers may not be able prevent these events, they may be able to respond with management or protection. Management actions or activities that could ameliorate the effects of sea-level rise on the Florida bonneted bat include providing protection of inland or higher elevation
Land Management Practices
While land management practices are intended to mimic natural processes and benefit native species like the Florida bonneted bat by maintaining habitat quality, these activities can result in inadvertent negative impacts
activities that could ameliorate the effects of sea-level rise on the Florida bonneted bat include providing protection of inland or higher elevation
Land Management Practices
While land management practices are intended to mimic natural processes and benefit native species like the Florida bonneted bat by maintaining habitat quality, these activities can result in inadvertent negative impacts. For example, removal of old or live trees with cavities or hollows during activities associated with forest management ( e.g., timber management including tree removal/thinning/pruning), fuel reduction, prescribed fire, non-native or invasive species treatment, habitat restoration, or trail maintenance may inadvertently remove roost sites, if such sites are not known (see Factor A, Land Management Practices, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Also, while fire is a vital component in maintaining suitable habitat (Braun de Torrez et al. 2018, entire), cavity-roosting bats are generally susceptible to fire effects, and even a single, localized fire event could potentially impact individuals (Carter et al. 2000, p. 140). Loss of an active roost or removal during critical life-history stages ( e.g., when females are pregnant or rearing young) can have severe ramifications, considering the species' apparent small population size and low fecundity (see Factor E, Effects of Small Population Size, Isolation, and Other Factors, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Risk from fire or other forest management practices may be minimized by conducting activities outside the bat's breeding season, though disturbance to roost sites at any time of the year may alter social dynamics and reproductive success (Blumstein 2010, pp. 665-666; Ober et al. 2016, p. 7)
of Small Population Size, Isolation, and Other Factors, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Risk from fire or other forest management practices may be minimized by conducting activities outside the bat's breeding season, though disturbance to roost sites at any time of the year may alter social dynamics and reproductive success (Blumstein 2010, pp. 665-666; Ober et al. 2016, p. 7).
Conversely, forest management can help maintain important roosting and foraging habitat (see Use of Forests and Other Natural Areas, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)), and, in fact, a lack of forest management, including a lack of prescribed fire, can be detrimental to the species. Management practices that include retaining large-cavity trees and snags, wherever possible, may help reduce competition for tree cavities (see Factor E, Competition for Tree Cavities, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)), enhance roosting opportunities, and help promote survival and the potential for population expansion over the long term. Prescribed fire has been found to have short-term positive effects on Florida bonneted bats, and restoring fire to fire-dependent forests may improve foraging habitat for this species ( e.g., alter vegetation and prey base; create openings and alter structure) or create snags (Carter et al. 2000, p. 139; Boyles and Aubrey 2006, entire; Lacki et al. 2009, entire; Armitage and Ober 2012, entire; FWC 2013, pp. 9-11; Ober and McCleery 2014, pp. 1-3; Braun de Torrez et al. 2018, entire).
Wind Energy
Wind power is one of the fastest growing sectors of the energy industry (Horn et al. 2008, p. 123; Cryan and Barclay 2009, p. 1330), and the development of wind energy facilities in Florida may be of particular concern for the Florida bonneted bat as demand increases (see Proposed Wind Energy Facilities, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013))
orrez et al. 2018, entire).
Wind Energy
Wind power is one of the fastest growing sectors of the energy industry (Horn et al. 2008, p. 123; Cryan and Barclay 2009, p. 1330), and the development of wind energy facilities in Florida may be of particular concern for the Florida bonneted bat as demand increases (see Proposed Wind Energy Facilities, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Wind turbines kill large number of bats across North America, through direct contact with blades or towers as well as due to barotrauma (which involves tissue damage to air-containing structures such as lungs, caused by rapid or excessive pressure changes that can result when wind turbine blades create zones of low pressure as air flows over them). Wind turbine facilities are being planned for sites east and west of Lake Okeechobee, and wind energy development companies have indicated that areas around Lake Okeechobee are the most suitable sites in Florida for wind development (Tucker, in litt. 2012). If successfully developed, additional sites could be proposed, increasing the risk of impacts from wind energy to the Florida bonneted bat (Tucker, in litt. 2012).
While bat fatalities from wind energy facilities are well documented, potential impacts to the Florida bonneted bat are difficult to evaluate at this time, partly due to the uncertainty involving many factors ( e.g., location of facilities, operations). Certain aspects of the species' status and life history may increase vulnerability to impacts from wind energy facilities. The species' small population and low fecundity make any additional potential sources of mortality cause for concern. The species' high and strong flight capabilities and fast-hawking foraging behavior may increase risk. Conversely, as the species is non-migratory, potential impacts from wind energy facilities may not be as great in magnitude as perhaps other bat species that are migratory
lities. The species' small population and low fecundity make any additional potential sources of mortality cause for concern. The species' high and strong flight capabilities and fast-hawking foraging behavior may increase risk. Conversely, as the species is non-migratory, potential impacts from wind energy facilities may not be as great in magnitude as perhaps other bat species that are migratory. Implementation of the Service's land-based wind energy guidelines may also help to avoid and minimize some impacts (Service 2012, pp. 1-71).
Environmental Stochasticity
Hurricanes, storm surges, and other catastrophic and stochastic events are of significant concern (see Factor E, Environmental Stochasticity and Aspects of the Species' Life History and Climate Change Implications, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). In 2017 alone, at least four known roost trees were impacted by Hurricane Irma. While landowners or land managers cannot prevent these events, they may be able to respond with protection or management that can help reduce some effects or facilitate recovery from these events. Retention of large trees and snags wherever possible in multiple locations can help provide valuable roosting habitat throughout the species' range (Braun de Torrez et al. 2016, pp. 235, 240; Ober et al. 2016, p. 7). Management actions or activities that could enhance forest recovery following storms may include hand or mechanical removal of damaged vegetation or prescribed fire, if or when conditions are suitable. If large trees, cavity trees, trees with hollows or other decay, or snags need to be removed due to safety issues, visual or other inspection should occur to ensure that active roosts are not removed in this process.
Artificial structures could potentially help provide roosting opportunities in areas impacted by stochastic events or where suitable natural roosts are lacking or deficient
uitable. If large trees, cavity trees, trees with hollows or other decay, or snags need to be removed due to safety issues, visual or other inspection should occur to ensure that active roosts are not removed in this process.
Artificial structures could potentially help provide roosting opportunities in areas impacted by stochastic events or where suitable natural roosts are lacking or deficient. More research on the role of bat houses in bonneted bat conservation is needed, especially given the bat's social structure (FWC 2013, pp. 11-12; Ober et al. 2016, p. 7). If used, bat houses should be appropriately designed, placed, maintained, and monitored; such structures may also need to be reinforced and duplicated to prevent loss. If an occupied area is severely impacted, causing major losses of suitable natural roosts, the use of artificial structures could be explored as one possible option to help regain lost roosting capacity.
Pesticides and Contaminants
More study is needed to fully assess the risk that pesticides and contaminants pose to the Florida bonneted bat (see Factor E, Pesticides and Contaminants, final listing rule (78 FR 61004, October 2, 2013)). Although data are lacking, the species may be exposed to a variety of compounds through multiple routes of exposure. Areas with intensive pesticide activity et al. 2003, pp. 991-992; Wickramasinghe et al. 2004, entire). While exposure to some contaminants ( e.g., mercury) may be beyond the realm of what individuals or agencies can rectify, risks from pesticides can be partially reduced at the local level. For example, landowners and land managers can help reduce some risks of exposure and improve foraging conditions for the Florida bonneted bat by avoiding or limiting use of insecticides ( e.g., mosquito control, agricultural), wherever possible, and especially in areas known to be occupied by the Florida bonneted bat
s can rectify, risks from pesticides can be partially reduced at the local level. For example, landowners and land managers can help reduce some risks of exposure and improve foraging conditions for the Florida bonneted bat by avoiding or limiting use of insecticides ( e.g., mosquito control, agricultural), wherever possible, and esp

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/FR_PRORULE_2020-10840. Check the current official text before relying on it. Not legal advice.