Virtually identical in external appearance to its close relative, Natal's Long-fingered Bat, with which it shares caves in southern Africa. However, detailed analysis of its echolocation calls revealed that both species emit at peak frequencies separated by about 12 kHz. This difference, alongside genetic markers, confirmed they were two distinct species rather than one.
A small bat with long, narrow wings and the characteristic domed forehead of the genus. Pelage dark brown. Virtually indistinguishable from Natal's Long-fingered Bat to the naked eye; reliable identification requires acoustic or genetic analysis.
It emits steep frequency-modulated (FM) pulses typical of the genus. Its peak energy frequency is about 12 kHz lower than that of its sister species, Natal's Long-fingered Bat, providing the main reliable acoustic difference between them; an absolute figure is not given here as none has been published with sufficient reliability for this specific species. The roost provides further tracks and signs: it forms colonies in caves, often shared with Miniopterus natalensis, with guano accumulations beneath the perch.
Caves and surrounding woodland and scrub habitat in western southern Africa, south-eastern East Africa and parts of Central Africa.
Nocturnal flying insects.
Forms colonies in caves, often alongside its sister species, Natal's Long-fingered Bat, with virtually no hybridisation despite their external similarity.
The species maintains a large and stable population across most of its range, with no evidence of widespread decline.
Human disturbance of roost caves.
See all species accounts for bats · Full species index
Mammaling is a free app for logging the mammals you find. You record a sighting in a moment — even if it's just a track — your life list grows, and the record becomes available to scientific and conservation projects.
It runs on your phone with nothing to install. If you like, it adds to your home screen like any other app.
Open Mammaling