Spectral Bat
Vampyrum spectrum
Conservation Status
VulnerableMammalia · Chiroptera · Phyllostomidae
About
The spectral bat, also called the great false vampire bat, great spectral bat, American false vampire bat or Linnaeus's false vampire bat, is a large, carnivorous leaf-nosed bat found in Mexico, Central America, and South America. It is the only member of the genus Vampyrum; its closest living relative is the big-eared woolly bat. It is the largest bat species in the New World, as well as the largest carnivorous bat: its wingspan is 0.7–1.0 m (2.3–3.3 ft). It has a robust skull and teeth, with which it delivers a powerful bite to kill its prey. Birds are frequent prey items, though it may also consume rodents, insects, and other bats.
Fun Fact
Spectral bats are the largest bats in the Americas, with wingspans approaching 1 metre — they are carnivorous, hunting birds, rodents, and other bats in the darkness of Central and South American rainforests.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Tropical rainforests
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
5-8 years
Threats
- Illegal Logging
- Illegal Wildlife Trade
- Deforestation