Free-tailed Bats (Molossidae)

 

 

The Molossidae contain 18 genera and ca. 110 species. They are found in warm regions on five continents, e.g., from the southern United States to Argentina, in southern Europe, Africa, subtropical and tropical Asia, and Australia. These bats are found in open and forested areas, and roost in caves, rocky crevices, hollow trees, and man-made structures. Some roost in small groups, but cave-dwelling species may form colonies of up to 50 million individuals. Molossids are small to moderately large bats, with small eyes, short and broad ears and muzzles, fleshy lips, long, narrow wings, and short, usually dark fur. In most species tail projects beyond the membrane that connects the base of the tail to the hind legs. Forearm length 27-85 mm. These are the fastest-flying of all bat species. They are insectivorous.

 

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