Animal Family: Emballonuridae

About the Emballonuridae Family

The parent order is Chiroptera.

Discover the fascinating world of the Emballonuridae family, commonly known as sac-winged or sheath-tailed bats. This diverse group of microbats is distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, from Central and South America to Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Emballonurids are primarily insectivorous, playing a crucial role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations. They are also known for their unique roosting habits, often found in caves, rock crevices, hollow trees, and even abandoned buildings.

What truly sets the Emballonuridae apart is their distinctive anatomical features, particularly the presence of glandular sacs on their wings. These sacs, which are more prominent in males, are believed to play a role in chemical communication, releasing pheromones for mating or territorial marking. Another unique trait is the "sheath-tail" where the tail extends to the edge of the uropatagium (the membrane between the legs), but unlike many other bat families, it does not extend beyond it. This feature gives them their common name and aids in their agile flight. Additionally, many species within this family exhibit a characteristic flattened skull and often have long, pointed ears.

Common traits among animals in the Emballonuridae family include their relatively small to medium size, typically ranging from 3 to 10 cm in head and body length. Their fur coloration varies but often includes shades of brown, grey, or black, sometimes with lighter underparts. They possess a well-developed echolocation system, emitting high-frequency calls to navigate and hunt in darkness. Socially, Emballonurids can range from solitary individuals to large colonies, with some species forming harems. Their nocturnal activity and aerial insectivorous diet are also shared characteristics, making them vital nocturnal predators in their habitats.

Other Orders

There are many different orders based upon their class. To learn more about classification orders, click here.