The desert red bat has red fur, bicolored, with white tips; males often appearing more vibrantly pigmented than females. The species is slightly smaller than the closely related eastern red bat. Desert red bats are often found in riparian habitats, particularly those associated with cottonwood trees. During the active season it roosts in the foliage of trees and shrubs; however, little is known about the species' winter activity or roosting sites. Favorite foods include beetles, flies, and moths. Mothers typically birth twins but can deliver up to 5 pups in a litter! In the wild desert red bats may survive to over 12 years in age.