Pharidae

Pharidae is a family of small to medium-sized bats, commonly known as free-tailed bats, that are native to the Americas. This family includes several genera, with the most well-known being Phyllostomus, which contains over 100 species. Pharidae are characterized by their long, thin snouts and long, tapering tails, which are used for gripping onto surfaces during flight. They are often found in tropical and subtropical regions, where they inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, caves, and urban areas.

Free-tailed bats are insectivorous, feeding primarily on insects such as moths, beetles, and flies. They are known for their echolocation calls, which are used to navigate and locate prey in the dark. Pharidae are also known for their social behavior, with some species forming large colonies in caves and other sheltered areas.

The family Pharidae is an important part of the ecosystem, as they help control insect populations and serve as a food source for other animals. However, they are also vulnerable to habitat loss and other threats, and conservation efforts are underway to protect these important bats.