A pair of Black-bearded Tomb Bats clings to
the roof of a limestone cave at Krabi, southern Thailand.
The black beard is visible
as a dark smudge on the lowermost of these two bats, which is probably a
male.
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This widespread
insectivorous bat inhabits various forest types, including scrub and other
disturbed areas. It generally roosts in caves and rock crevices, sometimes
in the company of other bat species. The pair of bats illustrated here were
found clinging to the roof a large limestone cave at Krabi, southern
Thailand, in the company of around 50 roundleaf bats. Colonies of up to 4000
individuals have been reported from other parts of Thailand.
Its fur is pale in colour,
ranging from buff to greyish-brown. Adult males of the species often possess
a dark beard under the throat (see photo).
The wings are pale and pinkish, and mainly devoid of fur. The free tail is
slender and slightly enlarged at the tip.
The Black-bearded Tomb Bat ranges from India and Sri Lanka, through Burma,
Thailand and Indochina (including southern China) to Peninsular Malaysia,
Singapore, Sumatra, Java and Borneo.
Order : CHIROPTERA
Family : Emballonuridae
Species : Taphozous melanopogon
Forearm Length : up to
6.5 cm
Tail Length : up to 2.4 cm
References : M2, M3
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