Mystacinidae

bat family

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The Mystacinidae family, also known as the New Zealand short-tailed bats, consists of two species: Mystacina robusta and Mystacina tuberculata. These bats are unique to New Zealand and are characterized by their short tails and thick, grayish-brown fur. They are notably terrestrial for bats, demonstrating agility on the ground. Their diet is varied, including fruits, nectar, pollen, and insects. M. tuberculata is known to roost in hollow trees, caves, or crevices, and can even dig tunnels in rotten wood. Sadly, M. robusta is believed to be extinct.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

bat
Annotated classification
Family Mystacinidae (New Zealand short-tailed bats) 2 small species in 1 genus (Mysticina) of New Zealand. Simple head similar to that of vesper bats. Wings fold very compactly; thumb and toe claws long and sharp; highly adapted for walking; tail perforates interfemoral membrane dorsally. Feed on…
Read More
Family Mystacinidae (New Zealand short-tailed bats) 2 small species in 1 genus (Mysticina) of New Zealand. Simple head similar to that of vesper bats. Wings fold very compactly; thumb and toe claws long and sharp; highly adapted for walking; tail perforates interfemoral membrane dorsally. Feed on…
Read More