Its fur, characterized by a short and even texture, exhibits a greyish-black color on the upper surface, often with a subtle brownish sheen, contrasting with a significantly paler underside. This coloration provides a degree of camouflage during their nocturnal activities. Additionally, the bat’s ears and wing membranes are distinctively black, contributing to its characteristic appearance. An interesting aspect of these bats is their somewhat unpleasant odor, a trait that may serve as a deterrent to predators or play a role in social interactions within their colonies.
European free-tailed bats are known for their distinctive flying habits. Emerging at dusk, they ascend to remarkable heights, engaging in direct and swift flight patterns. This behavior contrasts sharply with the more erratic flight maneuvers typical of many other bat species, showcasing the European free-tailed bat’s exceptional aerial agility and speed. This ability to sustain high-speed flight allows them to cover extensive distances in search of food, demonstrating a highly efficient foraging strategy.
In terms of diet, these bats are insectivorous, preying on a wide range of airborne insects. Their ability to capture insects mid-flight negates the need for frequent drinking, as the prey provides sufficient moisture. However, on rare occasions, they require water, and European free-tailed bats exhibit remarkable behavior: they skim the surface of a river or lake, scooping up water without breaking their flight. This skillful maneuver highlights their agility and precision in flight.
The hunting behavior of the European free-tailed bat reveals interesting gender dynamics, with females consuming more food and displaying greater aggression during hunting compared to males. This difference may be attributed to the increased energy demands associated with gestation and lactation in females, necessitating a higher food intake to support reproductive processes.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Bosnia And Herz.
Bulgaria
China
Croatia
Cyprus
Egypt
France
Georgia
Gibraltar
Greece
Holy See
India
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Italy
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kyrgyzstan
Lebanon
Libya
Malta
Monaco
Montenegro
Morocco
Myanmar
Nepal
North Macedonia
Portugal
Russia
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Spain
Switzerland
Syria
Tajikistan
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
UzbekistanAnything we've missed?
Help us improve this page by suggesting edits. Glory never dies!
Suggest an editGet to know me
Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic / Monomorphic (size)
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
