Common Species of Bat Found Around the World

Did you know wild bats are found in many places all around the world? They exist and live in several different habitats, regions, climates, and localities. Although bats have a lot of similar characteristics and physiognomies, they also have unique and individual traits that set them apart from one another. In fact, there are over two thousand species of bat found all across the globe. There are over 175 species of bat in Indonesia alone! And in China, they are considered a symbol of good fortune.

They are fascinating creatures; especially being the only mammal capable of true flight. They are wonderful to learn about at any age! Continue reading to learn about some common bat species found in the world today, and what makes them a unique and special part of the world’s Eco-system.

Vampire Bats

Vampire Bats are microbats part of the Microchiroptera suborder. There are various tall tales and myths about Vampire bats. They are rumored to be from Transylvania and drink the blood of humans and children. This is far from reality. Vampire bats are actually from Central and South America. There are three different species of Vampire Bat; the White-Winged Vampire Bat, the Common Vampire Bat, and the Hairy-Legged Vampire Bat. The most interesting facts about them are that they are not “blood suckers” but instead, it scrapes the host’s skin then licks the blood up with its tongue. So yes, Vampire Bats do consume blood of other animals and prey, but never humans. As hematophagous mammals, they prefer cattle, pigs, horses, and birds but never take enough blood to kill. Also, they are very small; only averaging five to seven centimeters or so in size. They are affectionate and caring within their colonies by practicing mutual grooming and sharing food.

Flying Fox Bats

Flying Fox Bats are large megabats part of the Megachiroptera suborder. There are many species of Flying Foxes; from the Giant Golden-Crowned Flying Fox, to the Little Red Flying Fox, Black Flying Fox, and more. They are found all over the world, in countries such as Indonesia, Africa, parts of Asia, and even Australia. These species of bat are the largest in the world with wingspans commonly reaching four feet or more in width! They primarily feed on pollen, nectar, flowers, blossoms, and fruit. This is why they are mostly found living in tropical or warmer climates. Unlike microbats, Flying Foxes do not use echolocation to hunt and catch prey; instead, they have acute eyesight and sense of smell that allow them to locate food.

Bumblebee Bats

This bat is worth mentioning for the sole fact that it is the world’s smallest Microchiroptera suborder of bat known to man. They are also referred to as “Kitti’s Hog-Nosed Bat. They are reddish-brown in color and use echolocation, just like all other microbats, to locate and catch its meals. Bumblebee bat colonies can easily exceed 100 bats or more, even though females generally give birth to one offspring at a time. They are mostly found living in warmer climates, in countries like Thailand and Burma; living in limestone caves and along rivers.

Louisville Bat Removal

Although there are fascinating species of bat found all over the world, homeowners do not want any bats living on or inside their properties. If you suspect you may be experiencing a bat problem, call Louisville Bat Removal at 502-553-7622 today. We are DNR licensed and insured bat control specialists with more than 30 years of experience in the animal removal industry. Our highly trained and qualified bat control technicians only use safe and humane methods to extract bats from within a property and safely relocate them to a faraway location. We offer various services for commercial and residential properties; including attic restorations, bat cleanup, inspections, prevention, 24 emergency services, and much more. Visit our website at http://www.batremovallouisvilleky.com for details about our services and company background. We will gladly provide free estimate for bat control services in Louisville, KY and its nearby counties anytime.