Bats

Bats are amazing creatures and they definitely have an important impact on insect control and pollination around the world.
Here are a few interesting facts about bats and pollination:

  • Bats help with the pollination of many types of fruit from around the world, including bananas, mango and peaches to name a few
  • Researchers believe that 500+ tropical plants are pollinated by bats every year
  • Bats are able to help pollinate by using their very long tongues. Their tongues roll into the bodies near the ribs
  • Some bats can live more than 30 years
  • Bats can find food in total darkness-using echolocation
  • Many bats eat insects and are capable of consuming 1,200 mosquitoes in one hour and can often consume their body weight in insects in one night
  • Bats can fly at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour
  • Other types of bats consume fruits and nectar and play important roles in pollination
  • There are only 3 types of “vampire” bats that will consume blood-none live in the U.S.

Everything in the animal kingdom has a balance.  It seems as if birds, bees and butterflies take care of pollinating during the day, and the bat fills the role during the night.  Going along with the balance of nature as most know, bees are often attracted to flowers with bright vibrate colors and sweet smells.  Bats on the other hand are attracted to flowers and plants that are more neutral colored.  Also, flowers that have a musty-rotten smell will attract bats.
Also since most bats migrate they are able to fly great distances before dropping seeds into new locations. This in turn allows a new plant to grow if the environment is right.
Bats are pretty amazing creatures, not only do the help keep insects and mosquitoes in check, they are able to take on the extremely important role of pollination.  Please take a moment to appreciate bats and all their important role they play in our wonderful world.