Eastern Small-footed Bats feed primarily on flies and moths though studies have also found spiders, crickets, and ants in their diet. They have short, broad wings and capture prey both in the air and from the ground. Individuals in the wild are estimated to live between six to 12 years.

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The Eastern Small-footed Bat has glossy chestnut brown fur, a black face, black wings, and very small feet (less than two cm in length). It weighs around four to five grams.

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This species is among the rarest in the United States and not much is known about its habitat. During the summers, they roost in rock fields and talus slopes, favoring areas with high sun exposure. Colonies are also occasionally found in stone buildings and bridges.

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An emerging threat to this species is white-nose syndrome (WNS), caused by the fungal pathogen Pseudogymnoascus destructans. However, this species is less affected by this disease than other Myotis. This is most likely due to their tolerance of colder temperatures, often hibernating at cave entrances below the optimum temperatures needed for the growth of P. destructans. They are also more active during the winter months, allowing them to groom themselves more regularly, restore fat reserves, and rehydrate, possibly aiding in their survival against the effects of WNS.  Besides WNS, human activities, such as deforestation, agricultural and urban development, and wind turbines contribute to the decline of this species throughout its range.

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