These bats are called fishing bats and they are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Here are some key facts about them:
* Specialized adaptations: They have developed special adaptations for fishing, including:
* Large, hooked claws: These help them grab slippery fish.
* Long, narrow wings: These allow them to skim low over the water's surface.
* Sensitive whiskers: They help them detect ripples in the water created by fish.
* Hunting technique: They fly low over the water, using their sensitive whiskers and echolocation to detect fish. Once they spot a fish, they swoop down and snatch it with their claws.
* Diet: They primarily eat fish, but may also consume other small aquatic creatures like insects and crustaceans.
Examples of fishing bats:
* Greater fishing bat (Noctilio leporinus): This species is found in Central and South America.
* Lesser fishing bat (Noctilio albiventris): Also found in Central and South America.
* Fishing bulldog bat (Noctilio leporinus): This species is unique in its ability to dive completely underwater to catch fish.
Interesting fact: Fishing bats are the only mammals known to actively hunt and catch fish by diving underwater.