The Family Nycteridae, commonly known as slit-faced bats, is a group of medium-sized insectivorous bats found primarily in Africa and parts of Southeast Asia. They are named for the distinctive longitudinal slit on their faces, which is thought to aid in echolocation. Nycterid bats have broad wings adapted for maneuverable flight in dense forests and feed mainly on insects, using sophisticated echolocation calls to locate prey. Most species are nocturnal and roost in caves, hollow trees, or rock crevices. They play an important ecological role as natural pest controllers by regulating insect populations.