The Hog-nosed bat, also affectionately termed the bumblebee bat or by its scientific name, Kitti’s hog-nosed bat (Craseonycteris thonglongyai), holds the distinguished title of the world’s smallest mammal by weight. This minuscule creature is endemic to Southeast Asia, specifically found in parts of Thailand and Myanmar, where it navigates the complexities of its habitat with remarkable adaptability. Adults of this species can weigh as little as 2 grams (0.071 ounces) and measure just about 29 to 33 millimeters (1 to 1.3 inches) in length, sizes that contribute to its comparison with a bumblebee, hence its common name.

Characterized by their distinctive pig-like snouts and sizable ears, these tiny bats are adept at echolocation, a necessary skill for navigating in the dark and hunting for food. Their echolocation system allows them to emit high-pitched sounds that bounce back from objects, enabling them to detect and capture prey and avoid obstacles in their environment. This ability is crucial for their survival, especially considering their nocturnal lifestyle and the aerial nature of their insect prey, including flies and mosquitoes.

The behavioral and ecological aspects of the bumblebee bat remain largely shrouded in mystery due to their small size and the elusive nature of their existence. These bats prefer to roost in limestone caves along riverbanks, where colonies can vary significantly in size, from a few individuals to several hundred. Within these colonies, bumblebee bats engage in social interactions and share roosting spaces, showcasing a communal aspect of their lifestyle that is vital for their reproduction and survival.

Unfortunately, the bumblebee bat faces significant conservation challenges. Classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), their populations are under threat primarily due to habitat loss and human disturbance. Deforestation for agricultural expansion, logging, and mining are reducing their natural habitats, while disturbance from tourism and other human activities in cave environments poses additional risks.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Myanmar

3,770

Official estimate

NT

2018

Thailand

6,487

Official estimate

NT

2018