Bats are everywhere in Manuel Antonio
More than a hundred bat species live in Costa Rica, and they are among the most important animals in the forest: they pollinate flowers, spread seeds and eat huge numbers of insects. In Manuel Antonio two are especially easy to see with a guide.
Tent-making bats
Tent-making bats bite along the ribs of a large leaf, often a palm or heliconia, until it folds into a tent. Small groups roost underneath during the day, hanging in a neat row. A guide can show you the tent and the bats without disturbing them.
Proboscis bats
Proboscis bats (Rhynchonycteris naso) roost in a vertical line on tree trunks and rocks near water, where their grey-brown fur looks like lichen. Look along the mangroves and streams near Quepos.
At night
After dark bats hunt insects, drink nectar and eat fruit. On our Manuel Antonio Night Tour you will see them feeding, along with frogs, snakes and sleeping birds.
Respect the roost
Never touch or shine strong lights on roosting bats. Keep your voice low and let the guide show them in the scope.