10 Animals That Play Dead to Survive

7. Kitti's Hog-nosed Bat

Kitti's hog-nosed bat, also known as 'the bumblebee bat', holds the title as one of the world’s tiniest mammals—but when it comes to survival, size isn’t its only advantage. When faced with danger, this tiny bat doesn’t try to fight or flee. Instead, it curls its wings in tightly and stays completely still, transforming into a motionless little ball. With its small size and natural camouflage, it becomes nearly invisible to predators. This strategy is all about outsmarting threats without wasting precious energy. By playing dead, the bat lowers its risk of injury and increases its chances of survival. It’s a brilliant example of how animals find a balance between aggression and avoidance.