Balantiopteryx

Balantiopteryx is a bat species from the family of Myotis bats free- tails, which is native to Central and South America.

Description

Species of the genus Balantiopteryx have a head-body length of 48-55 mm, a tail of 12 to 21 mm in length and weigh 4-9 grams. The fur color varies from dark brown, hazel and gray. None of the species has a striped pattern. The wings Sacks, gives the family the names are in this genus in the middle of the flight membrane between upper arm and forearm. The muzzle appears flattened.

Way of life

Bats of the genus Balantiopteryx are gregarious and live in groups of up to 2,000 animals in caves and field walls, often near water. Usually the animals are hanging in bright places and keep similar to other Myotis bats - free tails a certain distance from each other. Balantiopteryx belongs to the genus, the evening flies out early, often before sunset. It feeds on insects.

Types and distribution

• Balantiopteryx plicata: Mexico to Costa Rica
• Balantiopteryx infusca: Ecuador and Colombia
• Balantiopteryx io: South Mexico to Guatemala and Belize

While Balantiopteryx plicata is classified by the IUCN as safely apply Balantiopteryx io as vulnerable and Balantiopteryx infusca as endangered. The number of individuals of both species is declining. The reason for the destruction of the habitat and in particular the failure of the caves in which they are instructed as hanging place apply. Tourism in the caves of Belize and Yucatan endanger there occurring species B. io. B. infusca is only very locally before in Ecuador and Colombia, with only one report from Colombia exists. Accordingly, very little is known about this species and its needs.

Distribution area of Balantiopteryx infusca

Distribution area of Balantiopteryx io