lesser bulldog bat

The lesser bulldog bat (Noctilio albiventris) is a tropical bat found in Central and South America. It is characterized by its full lips, flat muzzle resembling a bulldog, and large hind feet with hooklike claws adapted for snatching prey from water surfaces.1

These bats are about 9 cm (3.5 inches) long with a wingspan of 40–44 cm (15.7–17.3 inches). Their fur ranges from brown to reddish or orange, with a whitish belly, which is reflected in its scientific name albiventris. Both species of bulldog bats have oily, water-repellent fur and are capable swimmers.1

Lesser bulldog bats primarily feed on insects, which they detect using echolocation to identify ripples on the water's surface. They can also catch insects in mid-air. Prey is transferred to their mouths, briefly chewed, and then stored in cheek pouches.1