When you hear the word "bat" what is the first thing that comes to mind? Vampires, Halloween, Batman, or the mammal in need of conservation? 

Bats are misunderstood and underappreciated for all they do for the environment. While we sleep, they are hard at work devouring insects, pollinating flowers and spreading seeds by the light of the moon.

However, over 200 species of bats worldwide are threatened with extinction. Bat Week, an annual international celebration from October 24-31, hopes to raise awareness about the need for bat conservation and share why bats matter. 

There are a lot of myths around bats, but the truth is we need them. 

Bats are fascinating animals who are vital to the health of our environment and economy. Learn more interesting facts about them below. 

• Bats can live over 30 years in the wild. 
• There are more than 1,300 species of bat.
• They can be found all over the world, expect in extreme desert and polar regions. 
• The only mammal capable of true flight.
• Bats use echolocation to navigate and catch prey.
• A single bat can eat up to its body weight in insects each night - protecting food crops and forests from pests.
• Face many threats like habitat loss and a fungal disease called White-Nose Syndrome.
• Bats pollinate plants like agave and fruit-eating bats spread seeds.
• Bats belong to a group of animals called Chiroptera (Kir-op-tera), which means "hand wing." Similar to the arm and hand of a human. 
• Bat wings have inspired some drone designs. 
• Bats pollinate crops and even help to fertilize crops with their guano, the richest known fertilizer.
• The pallid bat is immune to scorpions’ stings. (crazy, right?!)
• Bats hibernate, migrate, or do both depending on weather.
• Bats are not blind and have pretty good eyesight (similar to humans). 
• There is a vampire bat that survives by drinking blood of animals.

Bats are battling many threats, but you can be their hero. This is us sending a "bat signal" and hoping you will join us in answering the call for help. Donate today to provide housing and protection for bats around the world.