Nature Field Guide
Greater Sac-winged Bat
- Spanish name
- Murciélago listado de sacos mayor
- Scientific name
- Saccopteryx bilineata
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Two pale wavy stripes down a dark back are a starting clue for the greater sac-winged bat.
Species overview
About the Greater Sac-winged Bat
Two pale wavy stripes down a dark back are a starting clue for the greater sac-winged bat. This bat catches insects in flight, including beetles and flies recorded in diet studies. It roosts in sheltered but sometimes visible places, including tree surfaces and structures. Adult males have small wing sacs associated with scent communication, which explain the common name. Researchers have studied this species in Costa Rica. Similar sac-winged bats exist, so the stripes alone are not a complete identification test.
Explorer activity: Compare this bat with the proboscis bat. List differences in muzzle, coat texture and forearm markings.
Your discovery notes: Record the date, place and habitat. Add a sketch or a photograph taken from a distance. Write what you observed and one question you would like to investigate. If the species is uncertain, keep that uncertainty in your notes.
Identification
Key Features of the Greater Sac-winged Bat
Dark brown coat with two narrow pale wavy back stripes.
Small bat with pointed ears and dark membranous wings.
Similar species need expert comparison; never handle a bat to inspect wing sacs.
Habitat & range
Suitable tropical wooded habitat with undisturbed roosting surfaces.
Local observations
Recorded in Costa Rica. This is a country-level profile; it does not establish occurrence in every province, town or nature site.
When to observe
Forages after dusk; resting individuals may be observed quietly by day.
Conservation & care
Observe bats from a distance with an adult or guide. Do not touch, feed or handle any bat, including one found on the ground. Leave roosts undisturbed, avoid direct flash and ask local wildlife professionals for help if an animal appears injured.
Observation activity
Compare this bat with the proboscis bat. List differences in muzzle, coat texture and forearm markings.