Unconventional Bat Mating: Non-Penetrative Reproduction Discovered
Scientists have observed what appears to be the first known instances of non-penetrative reproductive sex in mammals, specifically in serotine bats. The male bats have a large and unusual penis, but instead of penetration, they grasp the female's back and move their erect penis around her tail membrane, searching for the vulva. Although there is no penetration, it is likely that the sperm find their way into the vagina. The study suggests that this unique reproductive strategy is a characteristic exclusive to serotine bats.