Family MOLOSSIDAE
Compiler and date details
31 December 1998 - J.A. Mahoney & D.W. Walton (1988); updated by Barry J. Richardson (1999), Centre for Biostructural and Biomolecular Research, University of Western Sydney, Hawkesbury
Introduction
Molossid bats are characterised by the absence of postorbital processes and only the palatal branch of the premaxillae may be present. There is articulation between the greater tuberosity of the humerus and the scapula. The upper lip is heavy and often has vertical folds. The ears are broad, often joined across the head and the tragus is present. The fifth manal digit is short, half or less the length of the third. The wing, therefore, is long and narrow and this family includes some of the fastest flying species of bats. The fibula is well developed, the legs short and strong. Conspicuous stiff bristle-like hairs are present on the feet. The tail extends well beyond the trailing edge of the interfemoral membrane.
Molossids are usually cavernicolous; roosts may be found in a variety of situations. All species are insectivorous. Although brief periods of torpor may occur, prolonged hibernation does not. Seasonal migration does occur. Although some species are solitary, most are social and colonies of enormous numbers of individuals are documented.
References
Allison, F.R. 1988. Molossidae. pp. 892–909 in Walton, D.W. & Richardson, B.J. (eds). Fauna of Australia. Volume 1B Mammalia. Canberra : Australian Government Publishing Service pp. 827