Giant bats with wingspans of up to 30cm have been discovered in Mexico

In the Mexican jungles of Chiapas state, scientists have made an unexpected discovery: two adult representatives of one of the largest bat species in the Neotropics - Phyllostomus hastatus, or big spear-nosed bats - have been found in the hollow of an ancient kapok tree. This is the first-ever discovery of this species in Mexico, according to the study published in the scientific journal Check List.

The discovery extends the species' range 120 kilometres northwest of its closest recorded point in Guatemala, the authors said.

"This is the first confirmed observation of Phyllostomus hastatus in Mexico and the first time the species has been seen using Ceiba pentandra trees as shelter," the researchers emphasise.

The big spear-nosed bat is not just an exotic animal. It is the second largest bat in the Neotropics. According to the article, it has a "large and well-developed body, powerful wings that allow it to travel considerable distances," as well as distinctive features: large "spear-shaped" nasal leaves used for echolocation, a forearm length of up to 3 inches (almost 8 cm), the presence of a tail, and dark brown fur and skin.

"The presence of features such as developed nasal structures and massive size in these individuals immediately made us realise that they were Phyllostomus hastatus, previously unrecorded in Mexico," the scientists explained.

Given the uniqueness of the find and the fragility of the ecosystem, the researchers are pushing for the species to be urgently added to the country's list of protected animals.

"This may be the only population of this species in the whole of Mexico," emphasise the authors of the paper J. Manuel Aranda-Coelho, L. Arturo Hernandez-Mihangos and Manuel Weber.

But the discovery is only part of the story. Researchers warn: the situation in the region remains alarming. The Lacandon rainforests where the mice were discovered are being actively logged. The reason is human interference and illegal extraction of natural resources.

"Habitat destruction caused by deforestation and human activities may threaten the survival of the new population," the article says.

The discovery itself took place in the Lakantun River area, near a well-preserved patch of pristine jungle. It was there, in the hollow of a kapok tree - the symbol of tropical Mesoamerica - and hid unusual flyers.

Earlier Phyllostomus hastatus were known in Central and South America, including Amazonia. But north of Guatemala, the species has not been seen. Scientists say this could mean that the range of these bats is wider than previously thought, or that climate change and habitat destruction are forcing the animals to seek new territories.