Ghost Bat
Macroderma gigas
Conservation Status
Near ThreatenedMammalia · Chiroptera · Megadermatidae
About
The ghost bat is a species of bat found in northern Australia. It is the only Australian bat that preys on large vertebrates – birds, reptiles and other mammals – which they detect using acute sight and hearing, combined with echolocation, while waiting in ambush at a perch. The wing membrane and bare skin is pale in colour, their fur is light or dark grey over the back and paler at the front. The species has a prominent and simple nose-leaf, with large elongated ears that are joined at the lower half, sharp teeth for attacking prey and large dark eyes. The first description of the species was published in 1880, since when its recorded range has significantly contracted.
Fun Fact
Ghost bats are the only carnivorous bats in Australia, hunting birds, frogs, lizards, and other bats in complete darkness, and their pale, translucent wing membranes give them their ghostly name.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Caves in tropical regions
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
10-15 years
Threats
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Habitat Loss
- Poaching