Of all the creatures in the animal world, bats probably get the worst rep. They are seen as scary flying animals that suck blood. However, these flying mammals are pretty awesome - they take out thousands of pesky insects, have superhero hearing, and even help the whole ecosystem. So what, you say? After all, they give you the creeps. Well, we guarantee that, after you look at these bat portraits, you will never think of them as scary again.
These striking photos were taken by Dr. Merlin Tuttle, who dedicated his life to the conservation of bats. The bat biologist and photographer has been taking beautiful photos of bats from around the world for many decades.
Related: These Cute Bat Photos Will Change Your Perception of Them!
Tuttle wants to change people’s perception of bats through his photographs, which show the mammals in their gentle, curious, and adorable state. There are currently over 1,400 bat species worldwide, and these images capture their rich diversity. Each of the 16 bats featured below – from a wrinkle-faced bat to a dwarf bonneted bat – is unique in its own way and will make you realize how special these animals are.
