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Southern dog-faced bat facts for kids

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Southern dog-faced bat
Cynomops planirostris skull.jpg
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Genus:
Cynomops
Species:
planirostris
Cynomops planirostris map.svg
Synonyms
  • Molossus planirostris
  • Molossops planirostris

The southern dog-faced bat (Cynomops planirostris) is a small, speedy bat. It is part of the Molossidae family. These bats are often called "free-tailed bats." This is because a part of their tail sticks out past the edge of their wing membrane.

This bat species lives in many countries across South and Central America. It can be found in places like northern Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil. It also lives in Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, and Panama. Other homes for this bat include Peru, Paraguay, Suriname, and Venezuela.

What is a Southern Dog-Faced Bat?

The southern dog-faced bat is a type of mammal. It is known for its flat, dog-like face. This unique face helps it fit into tight spaces. Like all bats, it is a flying mammal.

Its Scientific Name

The scientific name for this bat is Cynomops planirostris. The name was given by a scientist named Wilhelm Peters in 1866. Scientific names help scientists around the world know exactly which animal they are talking about.

Where Do Southern Dog-Faced Bats Live?

These bats live in tropical and subtropical areas. They prefer forests and woodlands. They can also be found in savannas. Their wide range shows they can adapt to different environments.

Countries They Call Home

Southern dog-faced bats are found in a large area. This includes most of northern South America. They also live in parts of Central America. Their homes stretch from Panama down to Argentina.

What Do Southern Dog-Faced Bats Eat?

Like many bats, the southern dog-faced bat eats insects. They are very good at catching flying bugs in the dark. This helps control insect populations. They use echolocation to find their food. Echolocation is like using sound waves to "see" in the dark.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Moloso mediano para niños

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