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Bats

Chiroptera

Bats are mammals in the order Chiroptera (“hand-wing”) and are the only mammals capable of true, sustained powered flight. With more than 1,400 species, bats are the second-largest order of mammals and live on every continent except Antarctica. Their wings are membranes of skin supported by elongated finger bones, and many species roost in caves, trees, or buildings. Many bats use echolocation to navigate and capture prey, though bats are not “blind” (they can see) and not all species rely on echolocation in the same way. Ecologically, bats provide major benefits by consuming insect pests, and in many regions they also pollinate plants and disperse seeds, supporting both ecosystems and agriculture.

Bats are mammals in the order Chiroptera (“hand-wing”) and are the only mammals capable of true, sustained powered flight. With more than 1,400 species, bats are the second-largest order of mammals and live on every continent except Antarctica. Their wings are membranes of skin supported by elongated finger bones, and many species roost in caves, trees, or buildings. Many bats use echolocation to navigate and capture prey, though bats are not “blind” (they can see) and not all species rely on echolocation in the same way. Ecologically, bats provide major benefits by consuming insect pests, and in many regions they also pollinate plants and disperse seeds, supporting both ecosystems and agriculture.