Mammals
Greater Spear-nosed Bat
Phyllostomus hastatus
Leaving a tropical cave at dusk, a greater spear-nosed bat screeches the call of its own group, helping members find each other before heading out to feed.
Overview
The greater spear-nosed bat, Phyllostomus hastatus, is a Least Concern leaf-nosed bat of tropical forests from Central America to northern South America. Its omnivorous diet, harem groups, and group-specific calls make it one of the most socially complex bats of the Neotropics.
A bat with a social voice
Because its calls differ from group to group, the greater spear-nosed bat has become a favourite subject for scientists studying how animals recognise their own group.
Status
Least Concern, widespread and common across a large range.
Greater Spear-nosed Bat: common questions
What does the greater spear-nosed bat eat?
It is an omnivore that eats fruit, pollen, insects, and small vertebrates.
How does the greater spear-nosed bat live?
It lives in groups of females with one male, which defends his harem in cave and tree roosts.
Why are its calls special?
It uses screech calls that differ between groups, which helps members of a group recognise each other.
Where is the greater spear-nosed bat found?
It lives in tropical forest from Central America through northern South America.