Waterhouse’s Leaf-nosed Bat

Waterhouse's leaf-nosed bat (Macrotus waterhousii) is a species of big-eared bat in the family Phyllostomidae. It is found in the Greater Antilles (excluding Puerto Rico) in the Cayman Islands, Cuba, Hispaniola (the Dominican Republic and Haiti) and Jamaica, as well as Mexico (from Sonora to Hidalgo) south to Guatemala. == Behavior == This species roosts primarily in caves, but also in mines and buildings. The species is insectivorous, primarily consuming insects of the order Lepidoptera and Orthoptera. M. waterhousii does not require complete darkness in its roosting place, and can often be found near the entrance of a cave (with in 10–30 meters), or even partially lit buildings. It is possible to find this species in groups, but not as common as other bats; they are almost never in direct contact with one another. They typically leave their roost about 30 minutes after sundown. == Reproduction == === Sperm cycle === Male M. waterhousii have an interesting cycle in their sperm production and peak times for successful mating. From December to early June, there are no mature sperm found within the male's reproductive tract. Starting in June, the spermatogenic cycle begins, leading to sperm being available (for mating) in August.…