Myths About Bats…
False. Bats have good eyesight. In fact, there is speculation some bats may use vision in migration.
- A large percentage of bats have rabies.
False. Less than 0.5% of all bats contract rabies. Another myth is that bats are “carriers” of rabies. This is extremely rare.
- A single bat can eat 600 insects in an hour.
True. Some people even build special houses to attract bats to keep mosquito populations low.
- Some bats pollinate plants.
True. Many tropical and sub-tropical plants depend on nectar- and fruit-eating bats for pollination or seed dispersal. Some of the products from the long list of bat-dependent plants include: peaches, bananas, avocados, cashews, tequila, chewing gum, rope fibers, balsa wood and plant fibers used in life preservers and surgical bandages.
- Some bats weigh less than a penny.
True. The bumblebee bat of Thailand is the world’s smallest mammal. However, large bats called flying foxes found in the Old World tropics have wingspans up to six feet.
- Bats become entangled in people’s hair.
False. Bats are not interested in getting into people’s hair for any reason.
- In many parts of the world, bats are a symbol of good luck and happiness.
True. In China and other areas in the East, bats are practically worshipped. The image of bats is very popular, often adorning plates, scarves, art, ceramics and even furniture.
Facts about bats…
- What do bats have in common with dolphins?
Echolocation. While in flight, bats emit high-pitched sounds, then they listen for an echo. They use this technique to home in on the insects they eat. Dolphins use the same technique to home in on fish.
- How many babies do bats have each year?
Bats reproduce slowly. In most species, a female bat only has one baby per year. This is one reason many endangered bats are having a hard time making a comeback. Once their roosting sites are disturbed it takes a very long time for them to re-populate.
- What other mammals besides bats can fly?
None. Bats are the only flying mammals. The “flying” squirrel does not actually fly, it glides.
- How can I learn more about bats?
A good way is to contact Bat Conservation International (BCI). BCI is an organization formed to protect bats and their habitats. They have a lot of bat information and books as well as plans for building a bat house. BCI can be reached at the following address:
Bat Conservation International
P.O. Box 16203Austin, TX 78716
