Wild Fact #938 – A Sticky Situation – Sucker-Footed Bat
Photo by Merlin Tuttle, Bat Conservation International
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.
Photo courtesy of www.itsnature.com
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
