Amazonian sac-winged bat


The Amazonian sac-winged bat is a bat species of the family Emballonuridae from South America. It is found in northern Brazil, Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname and possibly Venezuela.

Taxonomy and etymology

It was described as a new species in 1901 by British zoologist Oldfield Thomas.
Thomas identified "Mr. Wickham" as the collector of the holotype, possibly referring to British explorer Henry Wickham who also collected bird specimens in South America.
Wickham collected the holotype in Santarém along the Amazon River.
The species name "gymnura" is from Ancient Greek "'" meaning "naked" and "'" meaning "tail."
Thomas wrote, "the nakedness of the interfemoral membrane|interfemoral will readily distinguish this bat from any of its allies."

Biology and ecology

It is insectivorous, catching its prey in the air.

Range and habitat

This bat inhabits humid tropical forests.
It is found in several countries and territories in northern South America, including Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname.

Conservation

It is currently evaluated as data deficient by the IUCN.
It is uncommonly encountered and its range is not clearly defined.