Ozimops ridei

A species of genus Ozimops, established to separate new species and generic combinations of Australian molossid bats. The population has been described as a subspecies of Mormopterus loriae, Loria's mastiff bat. In 2008, it was elevated for the first time to species rank—a view that was further corroborated in 2014 when a review of systematics and morphological characters of Australian Mormopterus was published.[2] The generic combination of this species was inferred by the elevation of the subgenus to genus Ozimops.[3]

The eponym for the species name "ridei" is likely William Ride, who was an accomplished Australian zoologist.

It is a smaller member of its genus, with a body mass of 5–11.2 g (0.18–0.40 oz). Its forearm is 30–35 mm (1.2–1.4 in) long. Fur color is highly variable among individuals, with some bats a light brownish-gray while others are darker brown.[2]

It is nocturnal, roosting in sheltered places during the day such as inside Eucalyptus tree hollows or in buildings.[2] It is insectivorous, often foraging near habitat edges.[4]

It occurs along much of the eastern coast of Australia. It is generally found in areas with more than 500 mm (20 in) of annual rainfall.[1]

It is listed as least concern by the IUCN—its lowest conservation priority. It meets the criteria for this category because it has a very large extent of occurrence, a large estimated area of occupancy, it uses a wide variety of habitats, and its range includes protected land. However, the IUCN assessment does express uncertainty over its population trend; it is unknown if its population is stable or declining.[1]

• Images of two individuals with transmitters attached
• Occurrence map of this species