Troughton's sheathtail-bat
Troughton's sheathtail-bat
©Bruce Thomson
Common name: Troughton's sheathtail-bat
Scientific name: Taphozous troughtoni
Animal group: Insectivorous bat
Conservation status: This species is listed as 'Endangered' in Queensland (Nature Conservation Act 1992).
Distribution: Known from three localities close to Mt Isa.
Description: A large species of insectivorous bat lacking the throat pouch that most bats in the family Emballonuridae possess, but having a wing pouch. Its most distinctive characteristic, however, is the large skull, which is likely to be a useful field character. The fur is olive brown with pale grey guard hairs and reddish-brown posterior regions.
Habitat: Not determined, but known roosts are located in open woodland and spinifex hills.
Threatening processes: The destruction of roosts is a threat to this species. The T. troughtoni colony in Native Bee Mine was destroyed when mining activities recommenced.
Recovery actions:
- It is important to p rotect all known roosts from further disturbance.
- Examine body features and measurements of this and other Taphozous to provide characteristics for field identification.
Further information:
Duncan, A., Baker, G.B. and Montgomery, N. (Eds.). (1999) The Action Plan for Australian Bats. Environment Australia, Canberra.
Churchill, S. (1998) Australian bats. New Holland, Sydney.
Last updated: 31 August 2006