Continuing with the trend of unique and unusual animals, we go all the way back to Madagascar. The more facts I write, the more I want to visit Madagascar to see some of these unique creatures. Although, I may have to hurry since the lush forest of Madagascar appears to be disappearing at an alarming rate. This removal of vegetation actually brings us to our next unique species so let’t get to it shall we?
Today we are going to talk about a special bat. I know, ewwww a bat but this one may have adapted to human interference in the forests of Madagascar. You see, humans are removing the vegetation to provide additional farmland. In the wake of this destruction appears a broad leaf plant called the traveler’s palm. This plant is very slippery and would be difficult for animals to utilize. This may be the case if you weren’t able to adapt. This is where the sucker-footed bat comes in. You see this bat has evolved sticky suckers on their feet. They are able to use the sticky adhesive to climb into these unique plants and roost. Conservation efforts for this bat are able to be relaxed since they have adapted to live in a degraded habitat.
Sucker-Footed Bat Fast Fact: The sucker-footed bat was discovered in Madagascar in 2006. This is a new species that may have evolved as a result of the farming practices on the island of Madagascar.
References:
Field Museum (2007, January 5). New Sucker-footed Bat Discovered In Madagascar. ScienceDaily. Retrieved November 15, 2009, from http://www.sciencedaily.com /releases/2007/01/070105151427.htm
What an incredible fantabulous blog. Great photos and posts!!! Am going to tweet your link so more blog readers will find you. 😀
Cheers! JJ
Hi JJ!
Thank you so much for the very nice words! As well, I definitely appreciate the support. It sure is nice to find others that have such a passion for the outdoors and everything nature related.
Thanks for checking out Wild Facts!
It amazes me how the words bat and ewwww always go together!
We put up a bat house this summer but I’m certain our residents will not be quite as unique (or as cute) as your bat.
Terrific week of information Nathan! Do you stay up nights thinking of neat captions for your tittles?
Bats are so important yet not too many people appreciate them. You may not get any fo the Sucker-footed bats but you will probably get some brown bats which are cute! I commend you putting up a bat house and helping the little critters out!
I usually have my title by the time I finish writing my post. Sometimes they are clever and I sit back and smile. Other times, I shake my head at disbelief at what I wrote. I am glad that you enjoy them though!
Love the little guys. I was thinking of putting up a bat house, but now with the cats I think I’ll give that idea a pass as well. The pictures are great. I don’t know where you find this stuff – Encyclopedia Brittanica?
Two of my favourite Aunts and both are talking about bat houses. I am impressed! I didn’t think people cared so much about bats!
As far as the pictures! Well, I generally just scour the internet looking for good ones. Someday I would love to use my own pictures/videos for some of these animals but until then I will keep borrowing!