Spectral Bat - Life History

Life History

Spectral bats usually roost in a hollow tree with a mate and their young of the year. Little data is available on the breeding details of the species, though births have been observed from May to July, at the onset of the rainy season. One young or pup is usually produced each year, though up to 3 have been recorded. The mother is reportedly very attentive and gentle with her offspring. The male is often in attendance as well and will frequently sleep with both the female and their young completely wrapped up in his wings. Pairs may mate for life. Young spectral bats may be predated by arboreal predators such as tree snakes, coatis and Leopardus cats. Adults may be killed in flight by owls. At this point, the little-known spectral bat is classified as Near Threatened, due only to its apparent dependency on mature forest, which is being heavily logged in some parts of the species range.