Megadermatidae

bat family

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Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

The Megadermatidae family, also known as false vampire bats, consists of five species of large, carnivorous bats found in Central Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Despite their name, they do not feed on blood but prey on small vertebrates like other bats, lizards, and mice.12

These bats are characterized by their large ears, which are joined at the base, and a prominent nose leaf around their nostrils. They are tailless, except for one species. False vampire bats roost in caves and hollow trees, and at least one species, the Australian false vampire bat (Macroderma gigas), is considered endangered.12

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Annotated classification
Family Megadermatidae (false vampire bats) 5 moderately large species in 4 genera of Central Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. External ears very large and fused across midline; nose leaf large with truncated end; eyes relatively large; wings broad; interfemoral membrane well developed and supported distally by…
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Family Megadermatidae (false vampire bats) 5 moderately large species in 4 genera of Central Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. External ears very large and fused across midline; nose leaf large with truncated end; eyes relatively large; wings broad; interfemoral membrane well developed and supported distally by…
Read More