First, They Groom; Then, They Share Blood — How Vampire Bats Bond With Strangers

Sharing meals is an essential part of vampire bat life. The question is, who are they willing to share food with?

By Leslie Nemo
Mar 19, 2020 9:04 PM
Vampire bat, Desmodus rotundus - Shutterstock
Vampire bat, Desmodus rotundus. (Credit: belizar/Shutterstock)

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As vampire bats get to know each other, they might start with a little mutual grooming. After nibbling at each other’s fur, there’s a chance they’ll take their relationship to the next level: regurgitating blood meals into each other’s mouths. 

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