There are 16 species of small to medium-sized bats in this family. They are found in Africa, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Slit-faced bats get their name from the long, vertical slit that runs across the top of their flattened noseleaf.

Slit-faced bats have large ears, broad wings, and a long tail. They are brown, brownish-orange, or gray.

They roost alone or in small groups in trees, buildings, caves, and animal burrows.

Most species eat insects.