Thomas's sac-winged bat facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Thomas's sac-winged bat |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Balantiopteryx
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| Species: |
io
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| Thomas's sac-winged bat range | |
The Thomas's sac-winged bat (Balantiopteryx io) is a small and interesting bat. It belongs to a group called sac-winged bats, known for special pouches on their wings. You can find these bats flying around in countries like Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico.
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About Thomas's Sac-Winged Bat
This bat got its name from a scientist named Oldfield Thomas in 1904. He might have named it after a character from Greek myths, Io, who was always on the move. This made him think of how bats are always flying! The Thomas's sac-winged bat is very closely related to another bat called Balantiopteryx infusca. There are no different types or subspecies of this bat.
What Does This Bat Look Like?
The Thomas's sac-winged bat is the smallest bat in its group, Balantiopteryx. It doesn't have the white edges on its wings that its cousin, the Balantiopteryx plicata, has. Male bats weigh about 3.7 grams, which is less than a nickel! Female bats are a bit heavier, weighing around 5 grams.
Life and Habits of the Thomas's Sac-Winged Bat
These bats love to live in caves. They usually hang out near the entrance where it's not too dark. Sometimes, though, they go deeper into the caves where it's much darker. They have also been found living in old railroad tunnels!
How Do They Live Together?
When they hang from the ceiling, these bats like to keep some space. They stay at least nine inches away from each other. You can find big groups of them, called colonies, with fifty or more bats living together.
What Do They Eat?
Thomas's sac-winged bats are insect eaters. They fly out to find their food after the sun goes down. Because they are active at night, it can be tricky for scientists to watch them and learn all their secrets.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Scientists don't have a lot of information about how these bats find partners. However, we do know that female bats usually have one baby at a time. Pregnant female bats have been seen in the months of March, April, May, and June.
Protecting Thomas's Sac-Winged Bat
The Thomas's sac-winged bat is considered a "vulnerable" species. This means its population is decreasing, and it could be in danger if we don't help. A big reason for this is habitat destruction. Sadly, about 30% of the places where these bats live have been harmed by people. This includes things like vandalism, fires in caves, and too much tourism. It's important to protect their homes so these amazing bats can continue to thrive!
