Long-legged Bat

About the Long-legged Bat

The long-legged bat (Macrophyllum macrophyllum) is a member of the Phyllostomidae family in the order Chiroptera. Both males and females of this species are generally small, with wingspans reaching 80mm with an average weight ranging between 6 and 9 grams. The facial structure of these bats includes a shortened rostrum with a prominent noseleaf. The most defining feature of these bats however, is their long posterior limbs that extend further than most Phyllostomidae bats. At the ends of these hind legs, the long-legged bat has abnormally large feet equipped with strong claws.

The first specimen of M. macrophyllum was discovered in Brazil in 1855. Since then, these bats have been sighted in various locations across South America and Central America. In the northern regions of South America, the long-legged bat has been found in parts of Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Venezuela. In Central America, these bats have been spotted in Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. M. macrophyllum has also been located in parts of southern Mexico. Although these bats are fairly small, they have a large home-range of up to 150 hectares, with females having slightly... Wikipedia →