Introductions

Chiropterans, the flying shadows that populate our nights, have always aroused the curiosity and mistrust of mankind. Commonly known as bats, we often associate them with rodents. But what do we really know about these enigmatic creatures? Are they really flying, bald mice? Let’s discover their fascinating characteristics, their role in nature and the challenges they face.

Flying Mammals with Ultrasonic Superpowers

Bats have been around since the Eocene period (56 to 34 million years ago) and are now represented by more than 1,200 species worldwide, over 20% of which are found in Africa. They are mammals with silky coats. Their scientific name, chiroptera, derives from the Greek words ‘chiro’ (hand) and ‘ptera’ (wing), meaning ‘that flies with the hands’. Their membranous wings enable them to fly actively. When at rest, they hang upside down using their free thumbs and clawed hind limbs.

The Two Main Groups of Chiroptera 

The Yinpterochiroptera group includes the fruit bats, which are large and frugivorous. They have great visual acuity but no echolocation. The smaller Yangochiroptera have a powerful echolocation system. Over the course of evolution, bats have developed a sophisticated echolocation system, enabling them to move with remarkable precision in total darkness. Discovered in the 18th century, their extraordinary abilities have fascinated scientists. By emitting ultrasound (a frequency in excess of 20 kHz, inaudible to the human ear) through their mouth or nose and analysing the echoes, they can not only locate obstacles and their prey but also determine their size and nature. Each species has its own sonar that enables them to be identified.

Bats: Masters of All Environments

Bats, masters of adaptation, have colonised a wide variety of environments, from the densest forests to the most artificial human structures (attics, cellars). They often live in communities, and some undertake long migratory journeys. They give birth to two young per year.  Their diets are varied: fruit, nectar, fish, insects, small animals (lizards, etc.) and even blood, like in the case of the famous American vampires. In Madagascar, for example, the known bat species are insectivores and frugivores.

Bats: Key Players in Endangered Biodiversity

Bats play a crucial role in ecosystems. Fruit-eating species help to disperse seeds, thereby promoting forest regeneration. Nectarivores pollinate many plants. Insectivores regulate insect populations, particularly mosquitoes, by consuming large quantities of insects every night. The excrement (guano) of these colonies, rich in nutrients, is an excellent fertilizer. Bats, weakened by parasites and the destruction of their habitats, are unfortunately reservoirs for many viruses. However, the transmission of these viruses to humans is conditioned by environmental and behavioural factors. There is an urgent need to protect these species and their habitats more effectively in order to preserve biodiversity and limit health risks.

Conclusion

Let’s demystify bats! Half the bats in the world are in danger of extinction. Yet they play an important ecological role on our planet. To help protect them, let’s work together to demystify bats and learn how to live together with these fascinating flying mammals. 

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