Bats are mammals but not marsupials. Marsupials give birth to their young alive and carry them in a pouch during their early growth. Mammals also give birth to live young, but their gestation periods are longer and they have no need for a pouch after delivery.

In general, adult female bats give birth to one pup every year. A mother gives birth while suspended by her feet and must catch her child as it falls using her wings. The pup is born without hair and with its eyes closed. The little animal is clinging to its mother with its keen claws. Within three to six weeks after birth, a bat pup can learn to fly.