New Zealand Long-tailed Bat

The New Zealand long-tailed bat, or pekapeka, is one of the country’s two surviving native bats. It is endemic and survives in scattered forest populations. This small brown bat has a long tail enclosed within the membrane between its hind legs. Adults weigh roughly 8–12 grams and have narrow wings suited to fast flight.

It occupies forest, farmland and river corridors on both main islands. Important populations occur in Waikato, King Country, central North Island and Fiordland. It emerges around dusk and catches flying insects using echolocation. Individuals travel several kilometres nightly and roost in tree cavities.

The species is Nationally Critical under the NZTCS. Introduced predators threaten roosting bats. Guided evening bat walks around Hamilton offer an accessible possibility. Pekapeka are also monitored in Pureora and Whirinaki forests.