Fun Bat Facts
Bats are some of the most remarkable animals on the planet. With over 1,400 species worldwide, they play essential roles in ecosystems — from pollinating flowers to controlling insect populations.
Whether you're curious about their unique way of seeing with sound or their impressive flying abilities, these fun facts will give you a whole new appreciation for these amazing creatures
Night insects have the most to fear from bats. Each night, bats can eat their body weight in insects, numbering in the thousands!
The longest-living bat is 41 Although most bats live less than 20 years in the wild, scientists have documented six species that live more than 30 years. In 2006, a tiny bat from Siberia set the world record at 41 years
Bats are inspiring medical marvels About 80 medicines come from plants that rely on bats for their survival. While bats are not blind, studying how bats use echolocation has helped scientists develop navigational aids for the blind. Research on bats has also led to advances in vaccines.
The video below shows a glimpse into the lives of Flying Foxes battling extreme heat, as they seek relief in the river below.
Audion Description of the Video
Visual:The river flows steadily. A bat is shown closep-up,hanging upside down.(bat sounds)
Narrator: The Roper River. Fed by underground springs, it flows throughout the year. A vital refuge for a small mammal with an intense dislike for the sun.
Visual:A group of small bats clings to tree branches, wings folded.
Narrator: The little red flying fox. These bats are waiting for monsoon rains... but now it's reached 38 degrees Celsius.