common vampire bat

The common vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) is one of three species of blood-eating bats native to the New World tropics and subtropics. These bats are tailless and typically measure 7–9 cm (2.8–3.5 inches) in length, with their weight varying significantly after feeding. Their fur ranges from brown to reddish orange.1

Vampire bats emerge at night from roosts in hollow trees or caves. Using echolocation for orientation and heat sensors in their faces to detect prey, they land near their target and hop or crawl towards it. They make a small incision with sharp incisor teeth and lick the flowing blood, which is kept from clotting by an anticoagulant in their saliva. While the wounds are usually minor, infection can occur, and vampire bats are known to transmit rabies to livestock and humans.1

The common vampire bat exhibits a complex social structure where group members share blood meals if an individual fails to find enough food. Young vampires stay with their mothers for several months until they can feed independently. Females and their young form stable roosting groups, while males typically roost separately, except for dominant males who may roost with females.12