Observations on long-eared bats (Vespertilionidae: Nyctophilus) from Northern Australia.

Abstract

Information on identification and capture site is provided for long-eared bats (Nyctophilus) captured during a field trip across northern Australia from April to December, 1981. Distribution maps are provided for N. walkeri, N. arnhemensis and N. bifax based on previous records and specimens caught during this study. Nyctophilus walkeri, once thought to be taxonomically insecure, was found to be a distinctive species. Nyctophilus bifax was recorded from a large number of sites and its distribution was extended 650 km south in Western Australia and 550 km south in eastern Australia. Nyctophilus geoffroyi was found to be widespread and its distribution was extended 150 km north in the Northern Territory. No specimens referrable to N. timorensis were recorded. An unidentified species was recorded at Mt. Leyshon, Queensland. It most closely resembles N. gouldi but further studies are desirable. Tables on external and skull measurements for all species are given a long with diagrams of noseleaves and bacula. A key using external features is provided for northern Australian long-eared bats.