Flying mammal: meaning, definitions and examples

animal with wings

A flying mammal is a type of animal that belongs to the class Mammalia and has the ability to fly. Bats are the only mammals capable of sustained flight, using their wings to navigate through the air. These nocturnal creatures are known for their echolocation abilities, allowing them to hunt for insects in the dark.

bat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flying mammal	This phrase is typically used in more formal or scientific contexts to describe bats in terms of their classification as mammals capable of flight. It is useful when emphasizing the biological classification or distinguishing them from birds and insects. The bat is the only flying mammal capable of sustained flight. Researchers are studying the wing structure of flying mammals to better understand their evolution.
bat	This term is commonly used in everyday language and scientific contexts to refer to the small, flying mammals that are often seen at dusk or night. The word 'bat' can also refer to the equipment used in sports like baseball and cricket, but within biological contexts, it identifies the nocturnal creature. Bats are known for their ability to navigate in the dark using echolocation. We saw a bat flying across the night sky.

Examples of usage

• Bats are the only flying mammals in the world.

• Some flying mammals can reach impressive speeds in flight.

• Flying mammals play a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

• Bats are often misunderstood due to their nocturnal habits.

• In some cultures, flying mammals are considered symbols of good luck.