Description
Bats are found in nearly all parts of the world except the polar regions. There are nearly 1,000 species, and they vary greatly in size, color, and appearance. The smallest bat is only about one inch (2.5 cm) long. The largest, the flying fox of the tropics, has a body one foot (30 cm) long and a wingspread of nearly six feet (1.8 m). Bats may be black, red, white, or other colors. Some have tails.
The animal's wings are formed of thick skin that stretches from the forelimbs and long digits (or "fingers") down the flanks to the hind legs. The digits serve as a framework that makes the membrane rigid. Some species have a similar membrane (the interfemoral membrane) between the hind legs.
The five toes of the hind foot and the "thumb" of the forelimb have curved claws. In some species, the second digit also has a claw. The claws on the toes support the bat when it rests, hanging head downward from a branch or roof of a shelter. Bats have large ears. Most species have a lobe, called a tragus, in front of the ear opening. The ears are sometimes larger than the body and, in some species, fold up when the animal is at rest. Some bats have sensitive leaflike folds of skin around the nose and mouth that act as sense organs.
All bats have well-developed eyes and, contrary to popular belief, can see quite well. The typical bat has a pointed face and small, sharp teeth. Bats normally live 10 to 20 years.
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