This magnificent Spectral Bat - Vampyrum spectrum - was captured and released last night in the mountain forests of Trinidad’s northern range. This species is a top predator, feeding on birds and small mammals. According to the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, this species is listed as threatened due to its dependence on primary forest habitat and is rare and dispersed anywhere it is found, making it extremely susceptible to habitat fragmentation and population decline. It is very difficult to estimate rates of decline with such a widespread and rare species, especially due to habitat loss and human disturbance. Almost qualifies as threatened under Criterion A. Yet, this magnificent creature, and all bat species, remain "vermin" according to the outdated wildlife laws of Trinidad and Tobago Photo: Rachel Campbell (Trinibats)