Human civilization has generally regarded bats with superstition, fear and uncertainty. This post attempts to bring out some of the true facts about this amazing mammal.
Bats are found throughout the world except for certain oceanic islands, the Arctic and Antarctic.
Bats are the only mammals that can fly.
There are more than a 1000 bat species in the world.
More than 25% of the total number of mammal species are species of bats.
In colder regions, bats either hibernate in shelters with high humidity and temperatures above freezing, or migrate to warmer areas.
Bats are not blind.
Bats are very sociable animals, live in large colonies and communicate with each other.
Bats emit a series of supersonic cries and are able to detect flying insects when these sounds are reflected back (upon their contact with the insect's body). This is known as Echolocation
Echolocation also gives them a general sense of direction while flying in the dark.
Bats are valuable to humans as they help in keeping a check on insect population.
Bats spend most of their time hanging upside down.
China is the only place in this world where bats are seen as a lucky charm.
The Common Vampire Bat
Unique amongst mammals, the common vampire bat specie feeds entirely on blood sucked from its warm-blooded prey. Sleeping cattle and horses are their usual victims, but they have been known to feed on people as well. They don't remove enough blood to harm their host, but their bites can cause nasty infections and disease. (Source : NGC)
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