New World ghost bat

The New World ghost bat, belonging to the genus Diclidurus, is one of the few bat species known for its white or gray fur. Diclidurus albus, a species within this genus, is snowy-white with dark eyes and yellow-edged ears. It is a medium-sized insectivore, with a wingspan of about 40 cm (16 inches) and a body mass of approximately 20 grams (0.7 ounce).1

These bats primarily hunt moths in midair, using their large tail membranes and wings to capture prey. They emit high-frequency calls, largely inaudible to humans, to navigate and locate insects in open habitats. While once thought to be rare, recent studies suggest they can be locally common and play a significant role in controlling insect populations. The term "ghost bat" can also refer to the Australian giant false vampire bat (Macroderma gigas) and the Honduran white bat (Ectophylla alba), though these belong to different families. The specter bat is another term for a large tropical American leaf-nosed bat, Vampyrum spectrum.12