Wildlife

On our Christmas vacation last December the kids had a personal view of real bats. It was wonderful to see what nature really is, learning about our surroundings will make us thankful to God's creation!

What a Bat Really Is

Like humans, bats are mammals. Bats are the only mammals that actually fly, flapping
their wings to propel them in flight. Some mammals, such as flying squirrels, only
glide rather than fly. Because bats are unique they are classified in their own
special order of mammals, called Chiroptera. Chiroptera means “hand-wing,”
referring to how the finger bones of a bat support its wings. The wings of a bat are
actually thin membranes of skin that stretch between the fingers of the front leg and
extend to the hind legs and tail. The bat’s enlongated finger bones serve a purpose
similar to struts on an airplane wing, providing support and maneuverability
during flight. When a bat rests, it folds its wings alongside its body to protect the
delicate finger bones and wing membranes.

Bats are beneficial. They eat insects and pollinate plants and play an important role in keeping ecosystems healthy and in balance. Many myths are associated with bats, such as the saying “blind as a bat.” This isn’t true. Bats can see quite well. Another myth is that bats get caught in people’s hair. They don’t. Nor are bats destructive pests like rats and mice. In fact, a colony of bats could cut down on unwanted mosquitoes around your house and help keep your garden free of insects.

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Picture was taken at Mambucal Hot Spring Resort in Bacolod City, Philippines, nice place to stay for vacation.