Bat-Eared Fox

The bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis) is so called due to its distinctive, bat-wing-shaped ears, which can grow up to 14 centimetres in length. In fact, the species name ‘ megalotis ’ comes from the Greek words ‘mega’ and ‘otus’ meaning ‘large eared’. The ears are important in many aspects of the bat-eared fox’s life, from communication to finding food. Fur colour can range from pale yellow to a deep honey colour, depending on where the individual is found and how old it is. The muzzle of the bat-eared fox is greyish-black on top with paler sides. Its muzzle is larger than that of other fox species. The bat-eared fox has highly pointed teeth, which enables it to rapidly chew its preferred insect food items efficiently, to aid digestion.

Gallery
Bat-Eared Fox/Gallery