Butterfly bat

Introduction: Butterfly bats are associated with open plant vegetation, semi-arid regions and riverine forests. They prefer thatched roofs, a feature of accommodation and lodges in northern Namibia and are known to huddle in small groups of 10 in nearby thick vegetation.

Distribution: Northern Namibian areas such as Etosha National Park, Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip) and further west along the Kavango River regions reaching as far as Epupa Falls on the Kunene River.

Diet: Insects.

Colouring: A dark, reticulated pattern (similar to that of a giraffe) opposite to its light yellow base wing colour.

Size: Average body length 110mm.

Weight: 12-14g