The Linnaeus's false vampire bat (Vampyrum spectrum) is also known as the Spectral Vampire Bat. This species is the largest bat in the New World, having a wingspan of 80 cm or so (almost 3 ft) and a body length and weight of 125-35 mm and 145-190 grams respectively, The fur on the upper parts of the bats is normally dark brown, chestnut brown or rust-orange and quite short. The ears are very long and rounded. There is no discernible tail, but the tail membrane is long and broad. The large feet are robust, with long curved claws. The muzzle is long and narrow, and the teeth are strong. Underparts are usually pale, dirty gray-brown to yellow-brown - the fur is much shorter than on the back.
A formidable aerial night hunter, this large predatory species takes a huge range of vertebrate prey including amphibians, reptiles, small birds and mammals (including other species of bats). Insects are also included, especially large crickets, cicadas etc. Surprisingly, a small amount of fruit is also eaten, making this animal in the strictest sense an omnivore.
One young or pup is produced each year, and the mother is very attentive and gentle with her offspring. The male is always in attendance too and will frequently sleep with both mother and young completely wrapped in his wings.
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A formidable aerial night hunter, this large predatory species takes a huge range of vertebrate prey including amphibians, reptiles, small birds and mammals (including other species of bats). Insects are also included, especially large crickets, cicadas etc. Surprisingly, a small amount of fruit is also eaten, making this animal in the strictest sense an omnivore.
One young or pup is produced each year, and the mother is very attentive and gentle with her offspring. The male is always in attendance too and will frequently sleep with both mother and young completely wrapped in his wings.
Read more:
