Along with black cats, pumpkins and witches, bats are one of the archetypal symbols of Halloween. Let’s find out a bit more about Halloween bats, and take a look at some great resources for Halloween bat decorations, costumes and more.
Why Are Bats Associated With Halloween?
Bats are flying mammals with webbed wings. Although bats aren’t generally hostile to humans, they have become associated with the darker side of life and have something of a mixed reputation. This is in part because bats are nocturnal animals and feed at night. Bats also carry a number of diseases that are harmful to humans and other animals, including rabies.
Another reason is that bats may have very sharp, rather scary looking teeth, giving them a vampire-like appearance. In fact, the majority of bats eat insects or fruit, and only three species of bat live on blood exclusively. However these so-called ‘vampire bats’ have become associated with Halloween.
Bats do have more positive associations in many other cultures; for example, the Chinese regard it as a symbol of happiness and long life. Nonetheless, bats’ spooky reputation makes them very popular around Halloween time.
Halloween Bat Decorations
When planning your Halloween decorations, you’ll probably want to include a bat or two. Hanging bats are especially popular, and can often look very realistic. These and other bat decorations can be bought ready-made, or if you’re feeling handy you might want to make your own – find out how to make simple Halloween bat decorations using clothes pegs here.
You can also get at outdoor Halloween bat props, including those which can be hung in the trees or on the exterior of the house.
Halloween Bat Decorations & Other Bat Stuff on Amazon
Halloween Bat Costumes
Bat costumes are also popular for Halloween parties, especially among kids. You can buy one, or make your own.
Martha Stewart has instructions for a making a great Halloween bat costume using old umbrellas here.
And here’s another idea for a simple children’s Halloween bat costume.
Halloween Bat Printables
Halloween printables of all kinds of are popular with children, and bat printables are no exception. Here are some sites where you can find principle bat pictures for Halloween:
http://www.first-school.ws/activities/crafts/animals/wild/bat2.htm
http://familyfun.go.com/printables/bat-ghost-patterns-for-halloween-703190/
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/halloween/scary-bat-picture.html
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