Bats
They feed almost exclusively on insects and other arthropods, playing an important role as a regulator of nocturnal insect populations, the majority of which harm crops and in some cases, humans.
Approximately 5 years, with some species living for up to 30 years.
Several of Greece's bat species are endangered, and many are classified as insufficiently known to be assessed (Red Data Book, Greece,2009)
Bats form the class of Chiroptera, which is the second largest mammal class, with over 1,400 species worldwide. They are the only mammals with the ability to fly, although they do not have wings.
External features
Bats are small animals, with sizes that vary from species to species. The membrane that connects the forelimbs to the hindlimbs, and the peculiarity in the bones and muscles of these limbs, is the reason they can fly. During their flights they can reach speeds of up to 20 km per hour. Through the ultrasound they emit, they can orient themselves as well as identify their prey.
Habitat
They live mainly in caves, and in other natural and man-made shelters such as mines, tree cavities, crevices in rocks, etc.
Population in Greece
Greece hosts 36 species of Chiroptera.
Fun Fact!
Although some people associate the two, bats are as related to mice as humans are to any rodent species.