Raptor Bat

Big, mostly gentle giants hiding out in the marshes

Basic Information

Anatomy

It is a large bat capable of soaring at high altitudes. It mostly uses this capability to fly above the tree canopy at night. They have sharp hook nails on their wings, used mostly for defense against predation.

Genetics and Reproduction

They mostly stay in large groups with shared rearing responsibilities.

Ecology and Habitats

They  mostly live  in the Marshes of Madness,  though they used to be widespread. Because of this range contraction, many thought the bats were extinct. They mostly eat fruit, nectar, and pollen, but they will also eat insects and occasionally small animals like snakes or birds. There are myths about them attacking humans or eating children, but this has yet to be seen.  They will swoop at intruders to protect the colony, but tend to steer clear of humans in the wilderness.

Dietary Needs and Habits

They eat a lot of fruit to keep their energy levels up. Because there are few pollinators left, the plant species that remain,  particularly in the Marshes, have adapted to support the bats' dietary needs in exchange for pollination. Because of this, there are many nighttime blooming flowers with strong fragrances to attract the bats, with selection for plants that serve as bat food sources.

Biological Cycle

They are nocturnal to avoid the heat and dragons. Because of their large size they are tasty meals for dragons. They tend to   sleep  in underground caves or crevices to avoid surface temperatures during the day.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

They mostly use their sense of smell and echolocation to find their way around. Their eyesight is extremely poor. They also have a strong sense for heat, so can sense the heat of a nearby creature or area.

Scientific Name

Battica frugvorus

Conservation Status

Threatened, though there is strong debate on its conservation. On the one hand, they have been demonized for a long period of time. On the other hand, they are a key pollinator for many remaining plant life and help engineer fruit forests, even in the inhospitable areas like the Marshes of Madness.

Geographic Distribution

• The Wastes