Phoenix, AZ – Arizona State Parks is marking International Bat Week with a reminder that bats are vital to both the environment and agriculture across the Southwest.
According to the agency, bats play a major role in controlling insect populations—some species can consume up to 1,200 mosquitoes per hour. That natural pest control helps protect crops and maintain ecological balance.
Many native plants, including saguaros and agave, also rely on bats for pollination. Experts note that species like the lesser long-nosed bat are crucial for agave reproduction, which in turn supports tequila production—a major cultural and economic staple of the region.
Baby bats, known as “pups,” are born only once per year, making them among the slowest-reproducing mammals for their size, officials said. Despite myths fueled by pop culture, only three of the 1,400 bat species worldwide drink blood—and they primarily feed on livestock such as cows and goats, not humans.
Arizona State Parks encourages residents to celebrate Bat Week by learning more about these misunderstood animals and their environmental importance.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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