The biting and feeding habits of the Vampire bat, <i>Desmodus rotundus</i>*

Abstract

Observations of how the common vampire bat, Desmodus rotundus , prepares wound sites with the teeth and tongue are described, as well as how the wounds are made. Included are the selection and preparation of the wound sites, shearing or shaving of hairs and feathers, a description of teeth and how they may be sharpened, followed by the mechanics of actual biting and feeding. Types of wounds described include the typical bite, plus previously unknown wounds made by scraping, shaving, shearing, rasping and a defensive bite; also discussed are alimentation, aberrant food habits, factors in saliva and water consumption. Pertinent literature is reviewed as well as implications for disease transmission. It is suggested that similar studies should be made on Diaemus and Diphylla , the other two genera of the Desmodontidae.