Discover the incredible world of bats – nature's only flying mammals! Unlike other mammals that merely glide, bats are unique in their ability to achieve sustained, powered flight. With over 1,400 species, they represent nearly 20% of all mammalian species on Earth. Their wings? They're actually modified hands, with elongated fingers linked by a delicate membrane. These extraordinary nocturnal creatures use echolocation, emitting high-pitched sounds that bounce off objects, to navigate and hunt in complete darkness. Essential to ecosystems, bats play crucial roles in pollinating flowers and controlling insect populations. So, the next time you catch a glimpse of a bat, you're witnessing the marvels of nature's unmatched aerial acrobat!
