A wonderfully illustrated guide to the natural history of the world's bats Bats are the second-largest order of mammals and inhabit almost every corner of the globe, but these secretive creatures are often maligned and misunderstood. With more than 1,400 species worldwide, they are crucial contributors to ecosystems, controlling insect populations and fulfilling an essential role as pollinators. This one-of-a-kind guide showcases the unique characteristics and extraordinary diversity of our planet's bat life, providing an inviting introduction to these marvelous creatures. Written by a leading expert and packed with the latest scientific findings, The Lives of Bats blends diagrams and stunning photographs with in-depth coverage of profiled species to offer an incomparable look at these unsung heroes of the natural world. Includes a wealth of stunning color photos Features dozens of representative species profiles that demonstrate the remarkable diversity and adaptability of the only mammals on Earth capable of powered flight Covers key topics such as anatomy, echolocation, diet, thermoregulation, mating, diseases, and immunity Discusses human relationships with bats Essential reading for wildlife lovers everywhere.