The bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis) is known for its enormous 5-inch ears, which are used to shed heat and help keep the fox cool – plus a good sense of hearing. Found on the African savanna, fossil records show this canid first appeared during the middle Pleistocene, about 800,000 years ago. The scientific name is from the Greek words “oto/Otis” (ear), “cyon” (dog), and “mega” (big)—and basically means eared dog with big ears. Bat-eared foxes often live in close proximity to other groups – something uncommon among other wild dog species.
