Ghost Bats, also known as ‘false vampire bats’, were once believed to live off blood, much like the vampires from spooky stories!

While they do bite their prey on the neck, this nocturnal species isn’t interested blood at all and instead prefer to snack on rodents, birds, reptiles and bugs.

Let’s get to know the real Ghost Bat – and why they deserve to be loved and protected.
 

Super-senses

Ghost Bats have a super-power when it comes to hunting.

Although they have excellent vision, they use echolocation to stalk their prey, flying with laser-like precision.

Their large ears are also nearly half the length of their face, giving them excellent long-distance hearing!

Once their prey is in their sights, they deliver a swift, single bite to the neck, killing their prey with amazing efficiency.

Natural pest control

Their supreme skill as a predator might sound spooky, but these expert hunters are doing us a BIG favour by keeping pest and rodent populations under control.

They are Australia’s only carnivorous bat, acting like natural exterminators to keep ecosystems in healthy balance!

Tiny bats, BIG wings!

These little bats could just about fit into the palm of your hand, with an average body length of 10-14cm.

That is until they spread their impressive wings!

Ghost Bats have an average wingspan of around 60cm – six times the size of their body!

As well as helping their flight, they can wrap their big wings around themselves and their pups, to keep toasty warm while they sleep.

Crazy a-bat this species!

While these impressive little bats have the upper hand when it comes to hunting, they are facing significant threats in the wild.

Ghost Bats need safe habitat to breed and have their pups in, and plenty of food to go around.

Their vampire reputation might be a myth, but the need to protect them is very real.

This Halloween let’s give Ghost Bats the love they deserve – no tricks, only treats!