vampire bats

Vampire bats are small mammals found primarily in Central and South America. They are unique among bats for their hematophagy, meaning they feed exclusively on blood, mainly from mammals like livestock or sometimes humans. They have specialized adaptations: sharp, heat sensors on their noses to locate blood vessels, razor-sharp teeth to make small cuts, and saliva containing anticoagulants to keep the blood flowing. Vampire bats typically feed at night and often share their meals with other bats through a process called regurgitation. Despite their reputation, they rarely cause serious harm and play a complex role in their ecosystems.