Chris and guest Dr. Alyson Brokaw, a bat scientist and author of 'The Weird and Wonderful World of Bats,' dive deep into the fascinating physiology and ecology of bats. Dr. Brokaw discusses her journey into bat research, the diverse sensory modalities like echolocation and olfactory abilities, and how bats navigate their nocturnal world. The discussion also explores bats' critical roles in pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal and their impressive immune systems and longevity. Conservation status, unique bat species like the wrinkle-faced bat, and the dire need for more science funding to protect these incredible creatures are also highlighted.You can find more about Dr. Brokaw's Book HEREPodcast Timeline00:00 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast00:05 Meet Dr. Allison Brokaw: Bat Expert01:05 The Fascinating Diversity of Bats03:58 Dr. Brokaw's Journey into Bat Research07:54 Understanding Bat Senses: Sight and Smell17:02 Echolocation: The Science of Bat Communication24:58 Behavioral Flexibility in Bat Calls26:28 Bat Physiology: Hanging Upside Down29:24 Evolutionary History of Bats31:41 Bats' Immune System and Longevity35:39 Conservation Status of Bats39:28 Ecosystem Services Provided by Bats45:26 Favorite Bat Species and Their Unique Traits47:54 Writing the Book: Inspiration and Purpose51:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts===========================================================Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE.We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife.Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.comif you would like to advertise on our podcastYou can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices