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free-tailed bat |
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free-tailed batAny of about 90 species of bats (family Molossidae), found worldwide in warm regions, that are named for the way part of the tail extends beyond the membrane attached between the hind legs. Also known as mastiff or bulldog bats because of their facial resemblance to those dogs, free-tailed bats are swift fliers with a stout body and long, slender wings. They are about 1.6–5 in. (4–13 cm) long, excluding the 0.6–3-in. (1.5–8-cm) tail, and typically have small eyes, a heavy snout, large ears, and dark fur. They eat insects and roost in tree hollows, caves, and buildings. Most species live in groups; some, including the Mexican free-tailed bat, form colonies of several million. In the past, guano from such colonies was mined for fertilizer and for sodium nitrate (used to make gunpowder). How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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``The most common bat in the area is the free-tailed bat and the myotis bats, which are small, with wingspans between 4 to 6 inches,'' he said. Prevalence of rabies specific antibodies in the Mexican free-tailed bat (Tadarida braziliensis mexicana) at Lava Cave, New Mexico. Right in the heart of the capital city nestled under the Congress Avenue Bridge is the largest colony of Mexican Free-tailed bats in the United States. |
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