The western small-footed myotis has light brown to yellowish fur that contrasts starkly with its black face, ears, and wing membranes. This species is found in a variety of habitats including deserts, shrublands, grasslands, and wooded areas. The western small-footed myotis typically hibernates in crevices of caves and mines, but little is known about its winter ecology. Maternity colonies have been documented in rock crevices, barns, and abandoned houses. Females typically give birth to a single pup each season. Diet consists of moths, flies, caddisflies, and a wide range of insects of the order Hemiptera.