Bats are among the most diverse and ecologically important mammals on Earth, with over 1,400 species—nearly 20% of all mammalian species. These extraordinary creatures have evolved the unique ability to fly, with sizes ranging from the tiny 2-gram bumblebee bat, which has a wingspan of just 6 inches, to the impressive flying foxes, weighing up to 1.6 kilograms and spanning up to 5 feet 7 inches. This vast diversity in size, along with other fascinating phenotypic traits such as echolocation and specialized dietary habits, makes bats a compelling subject of study.
Bats also play a crucial role in sustaining healthy ecosystems... [more]