The upper body of the bat-eared fox is yellow-brown to gray. The throat, under parts, and insides of the ears are pale, while the outside of the ears, mask, lower legs, feet and tail tip are black. The outer ears are very large and aide in directional hearing. The fur is long, soft, and thick. The bat-eared fox's legs are relatively short. Its teeth and associated jaw muscles appear to be adapted for rapidly chewing insect prey.

Bat-eared foxes are not considered endangered. They are sometimes hunted for their fur or because they are perceived as threats to livestock.

Listed as of “least concern" on the IUCN Red List (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources).