A small, fascinating creature that lives in dry, desert-like areas of northern South America, especially in places like Venezuela, Colombia, and the islands off the coast. This bat stands out because of its long, narrow snout and tongue, which it uses to reach deep into flowers to drink nectar. Its favorite flowers belong to plants such as agaves and cacti, which bloom at night. Unlike many bats that eat bugs, this one is a nectar feeder, playing a huge role in helping plants grow by spreading pollen from one flower to another. In fact, without these bats, some desert plants might struggle to survive. What makes the southern long-nosed bat even more unique is its “moustache” of tiny whiskers around its nose, which may help it sense its surroundings and find food in the dark.

These bats have large eyes and excellent night vision, which helps them find flowers in low light. Their fur is soft and usually a sandy or grayish color that helps them blend into their rocky homes. Another cool thing is how they hang out during the day—literally. Like other bats, they rest upside down, but they often do this in small groups in caves or crevices, staying safe from predators and the hot sun. One of the most interesting facts about the southern long-nosed bat is how far it can fly just to find food. Some have been known to travel over 97 km (60 miles) in one night in search of flowering plants. That’s a lot of work for a tiny animal that only weighs as much as a couple of coins!

Unlike some other bat species, southern long-nosed bats are very social. They often live in colonies with hundreds or even thousands of other bats. When they fly out to feed at night, it looks like a river of tiny wings rushing into the moonlit sky. But they don’t just fly randomly—they remember where flowers are blooming and will return to the same feeding spots night after night. This memory helps them stay full and also helps the plants that rely on them.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Aruba

2015

Bonaire Sint Eustatius And Saba

2015

Bonaire

Colombia

2015

Curaçao

2015

Venezuela

2015