There are around 174 species of small to large-sized bats in this family. They are found from the Southwestern United States south to South America and the Caribbean.
They have a long ears and short, broad wings. Some species have tails and most species have a noseleaf. In most species the noseleaf is spear-shaped.
The species in this family come in a variety of colors and patterns and most species don't walk. The diet of the species in this family can include insects, fruit, pollen, and nectar. They nest in colonies in trees, caves, buildings, or under bridges.