Nycteris thebaica E.Geoffroy, 1818

Etymology

The Egyptian slit-faced bat (Nycteris thebaica E.Geoffroy, 1818) gets its common name from a deep slit that runs from the base of the ears to the nostrils, between the nose leaves.

Weight

These bats typically weigh 6.5–9.7 g (0.23–0.34 oz), and females can weigh up to 11.5 g (0.41 oz).

Wing Characteristics

They have broad wings with a wingspan of 283 mm (11.1 in) and a low aspect ratio, which allows for high maneuverability and the ability to hover close to the ground.

Fur Coloration

Their dorsal fur is dusky to reddish brown, while their underside is white to whitish gray.

Their fur is lighter than that of other members of the nycterid bat family.

Tail Length

They have a long tail that can reach 61 mm (2.4 in) in length.

Geographic Range

This species thrives in a variety of tropical and temperate habitats across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

One specimen was recorded on the Greek island of Corfu, marking the first known record of this animal in Europe.

Habitat Types

It can live in a wide range of diverse habitats, including forests, deserts, savannas, shrublands, and grasslands.

Reproductive Anatomy

For reproduction, the uterine horns of this species open into the vagina through separate vaginal canals, forming a uterus duplex.

The placenta does not have a hemophagous area, a structure that aids in endocytosis and digestion of erythrocytes.

Gestation Period

The gestation period varies based on climate: it lasts 2–3 months in tropical areas, and up to 5 months in temperate climates.

Neonatal Weight

At birth, young of this species weigh about 50% of the mother's body weight.

Parental Behavior

Females fly carrying their young between roosts to keep the young safe from predators.