Chiroptera

Chiroptera, the scientific name for the mammal order that comprises all bats. There are nearly 1000 bat species. They are among the most widespread of all mammals: Bats are found on every continent except Antarctica and in every climate except extreme polar environments. They live at high elevations and at sea level. About one-quarter of all known mammal species are bats.

Bats are the only vertebrates (animals with backbones), aside from birds, that are capable of prolonged flight. Their wings are made of thin skin membranes stretched over long, slender finger bones. Indeed, chiroptera is a Greek word that means “hand-wing.” The legs also help support the wing membrane. The feet typically have curved claws, which the bat uses for grasping a surface as it roosts, or hangs upside down to rest. An important feature of bats is their ability to fly and hunt in the dark. To do this, many bats use echolocation, in which they send out sound waves (usually inaudible to the human ear) that reflect off walls, trees, insects, and other objects. Bats interpret the reflected sound waves (called echoes) and use this information to fly safely in the dark. Contrary to popular belief, bats are not blind. Most species have good eyesight.

Persecution and habitat loss have reduced bat populations worldwide. Large roosts, especially in caves and abandoned mines, have been disturbed or destroyed. Despite their image as harmful or fear-inspiring predators, bats contribute in many positive ways to their environment. They consume a vast number of insects, including those that harm agricultural crops. Some species are important plant pollinators, and many help with seed distribution. People often now encourage the presence of bats in parks and around their homes with artificial roosts and small bat houses.

Scientific classification: Chiroptera is the order of bats in the class Mammalia. The order is divided into two suborders, Megachiroptera and Microchiroptera. The order Chiroptera consists of 19 families and has approximately 200 genera.