The Amazonian sac-winged bat (Saccopteryx gymnura) is a bat species of the family Emballonuridae[3] native to South America.[1]
It was described as a new species in 1901 by British zoologist Oldfield Thomas.[2] 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.[4] Wickham collected the holotype in Santarém along the Amazon River.[2] The species name "gymnura" is from Ancient Greek "gumnós" meaning "naked" and "ourá" meaning "tail." Thomas wrote, "the nakedness of the interfemoral [membrane] will readily distinguish this bat from any of its allies."[2]
It is insectivorous, catching its prey in the air[1] and inhabits tropical rainforests. It is found in several countries and territories in northern South America, including Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname.[1] It is uncommonly encountered and its range is not clearly defined.
It is currently evaluated as data deficient by the IUCN.[1]
The Amazonian sac-winged bat (Saccopteryx gymnura) is a bat species of the family Emballonuridae native to South America.
