
Chiroptera order
Chiroptera is the scientific order that includes all bats. These mammals are unique because they are the only ones capable of sustained flight, thanks to their wings formed by a thin membrane of skin stretched over elongated finger bones. Bats play essential ecological roles, such as pollinating plants and controlling insect populations. They vary widely in size and habitat, found in diverse environments worldwide. Most are nocturnal, using echolocation—sending out ultrasonic sounds—to navigate and locate food like insects or fruit. Overall, Chiroptera encompasses a fascinating group of flying mammals vital to many ecosystems.