Greater Bulldog Bat
Noctilio leporinus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Chiroptera · Noctilionidae
About
The greater bulldog bat or fisherman bat is a species of fishing bat native to Latin America. The bat uses echolocation to detect water ripples made by the fish upon which it preys, then uses the pouch between its legs to scoop the fish up and its sharp claws to catch and cling to it. It is not to be confused with the lesser bulldog bat, which, though belonging to the same genus, merely catches water insects, such as water striders and water beetles.
Fun Fact
Greater bulldog bats fish with their feet — they drag their large, hooked claws through the water surface, snagging small fish detected by echolocation from the ripples they create.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Coastal waters and rivers
Diet
Piscivore
Lifespan
8-12 years
Threats
- Invasive Aquatic Species
- Water Pollution