bat

Bats are mammals superficially resembling rodents, with large ears and eyes, a coating of fur, and pointed claws. However, its forelimbs have been adapted into wings, with a thin membrane stretching between the flexible fingerbones, and sometimes stretching along the sides to connect the wings to the hindlimbs. The tail also possesses membranes connecting it to the hindlimbs, allowing it to be used as a rudder in the air.

Bats range in size from a couple inches long with a 6-inch wingspan, to over 6 feet long, with a 15-foot wingspan.

Bats can be found in nearly every type of habitat, from deserts to woodlands, typically roosting in caves, trees, or even buildings (abandoned or otherwise) near a source of food and water. Some types of bats will migrate to warmer climates in the winter, while others will roost together in large groups to hibernate.

Different types of bats favor different diets, with most feeding on nocturnal insects, some larger species feeding on fruit, and a few species feeding on the blood of livestock or occasionally humans.

Bats are nocturnal, social creatures, typically congregating in large flocks. They roost together during the day in enclosed, sheltered areas such as caves or attics, hanging upside-down from the ceiling. When the sun sets, they fly out to hunt for insects or forage for fruit or nectar, depending on the species. A few species feed on the blood of herd animals and livestock. Larger species such as dire bats have been known to attack larger animals, including humanoids or even livestock. Bats are seldom seen out and about during the rain, as this weather tends to interfere with their echolocation.

Bats possess excellent hearing, allowing them to both hear the movement of their prey and to navigate in absolute darkness using echolocation. Their constant squeaks and cries are too high pitched to be heard by humans, but have been known to stun creatures with keener hearing.