There are approximately 100 species of bats in Brazil. Bats are the only mammals that can fly. Most species of bats are nocturnal. The skin that covers their arms, legs and the big bones of their fingers is strong and elastic, and may be black, brown, red, yellow or striped. Bats sleep hanging upside down from trees, in cracks between rocks, or inside caves or abandoned houses. Baby bats are born in holes in tree trunks or under the roofs
of buildings. Mothers bats take care of them until they are able to fly and hunt. Bats have an accurate sense of location, and this enables
them to avoid obstacles when flying, even when their eyes are closed. This is possible because
of the hairs on the nerve endings, which serve
as radar. Their pointed ears also give them an accurate sense of hearing, which is unique to these animals.
Approximate size: Between 2 and 6 inches long, with a 6- to 30-inch wingspan.
Favorite food: Butterflies, spiders, beetles, fish, toads, fruit, juice from flowers and the blood of mammals and birds (only hematophagous bats).
