Status: | Species: | Common Name: | Last Update: |
---|---|---|---|
Offline | Rhinopoma hardwickei | Lesser Mouse-Tailed Bat | ----- |
Offline | Rhinopoma microphyllum | Greater Mouse-Tailed Bat | ----- |
Offline | Rhinopoma muscatellum | Small Mouse-Tailed Bat | ----- |
The Family Rhinopomatidae consists of the mouse-tailed bats, small insectivorous bats found primarily in North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. They are named for their long, thin, tail-like extension that equals or exceeds the length of the hind limbs. Rhinopomatids are nocturnal and insectivorous, using echolocation to hunt flying insects. They typically roost in caves, crevices, or abandoned structures and are capable of long-distance flight despite their small size. Adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, these bats are notable for their lightweight bodies, simple wing structure, and distinctive tail, which aid in agile flight and maneuverability.