What notable characteristic does the Mexican Free-tailed Bat have?

The Mexican Free-tailed Bat is most notably recognized for its long, free tail, which extends beyond the body and is actually a defining feature of the species. The name itself, "free-tailed," highlights this characteristic, as it refers to the tail being free from the tail membrane. Other bats typically have tails that are either short or completely enclosed, making this species stand out in terms of its morphology.

While it is true that the Mexican Free-tailed Bat is social and often found in large colonies, the focus here is specifically on the distinctive feature of its tail, which plays a significant role in its identification. Furthermore, this bat species does not display bright colors, nor does it lack a tail entirely; therefore, the understanding of its physical characteristics aligns closely with why the correct answer pertains to its long, free tail.