Miniopteridae – Bent-winged bats
With wings that are over twice the length of the body, the bats of this family are also known as long-winged bats
Normally harmless, but it is suggested to avoid handling these bats as they act as a carrier of the potentially fatal Australian Bat Lissa virus, which is transmitted through scratches or bites. Bats of this family are able to fly at very high speeds and are usually nocturnal. These bats are primarily insectivorous.
Their name, i.e., the bent-winged bat, refers to their most apparent feature. These bats have the ability to fold back an exceptionally long third finger when the wings are folded, which allows them to move in a very agile manner, unlike any other bats. Member species of this family are present in forests, woodlands, and open.