Killer Bats Of The Amazon (Documentary)

Vampire Bats are not the dangerous vampires in disguise like in the movies, but they are spreading rabies at an alarming rate in the Amazon. Austin braves his claustrophobia in search of these elusive rodent beauties.

Vampire bats belong to the family Phyllostomidae and are primarily found in the Americas. Within the Amazon basin, the common vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) stands out as one of the few species known for feeding on blood—a trait that has both captivated and fueled fears about these intriguing creatures.

These bats have become well-adapted to the Amazonian environment, utilizing their keen echolocation abilities to navigate through the dense foliage in search of prey.

Contrary to popular belief, vampire bats don’t exclusively target humans; instead, they primarily feed on the blood of other animals, such as cattle, birds, and even other bats. The Amazon basin’s diverse array of wildlife provides an ample buffet for these blood-feeding bats.

One of the remarkable aspects of vampire bat behavior is their social structure. These bats often live in colonies, forming intricate social bonds with their roost mates. Cooperative behaviors, such as reciprocal grooming and regurgitating blood meals to share with less fortunate colony members, highlight the intricate social dynamics at play within these nocturnal communities.

The significance of vampire bats in the Amazon basin extends beyond their unique feeding habits and social structures. As blood feeders, they play a role in regulating the populations of other animals, contributing to the delicate balance of the rainforest ecosystem. Furthermore, their saliva contains anticoagulant enzymes that prevent blood clotting, a trait that has led scientists to explore potential medical applications.