Record of unilateral ocular anomaly in a yellow-shouldered bat Sturnira hondurensis (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) from Nauzontla, Puebla, México

Abstract

Ocular anomalies in wild bats are poorly documented, especially under natural conditions. This report presents a case of unilateral ocular anomaly in an adult male Sturnira hondurensis. The individual was captured incidentally on May 16, 2025, in a cave in Nauzontla, Puebla, México, using a mist net. The individual was measured, photographed, and subsequently released alive at the capture site. During the physical examination, a translucent, gelatinous protrusion was observed completely covering the left eye, while the right eye showed no visible alterations. The appearance suggests a possible corneal alteration. This uncommon finding highlights the importance of including basic ophthalmological assessments in field studies, especially in areas where exposure to environmental contaminants may affect visual health. Documenting such anomalies will contribute to future clinical and ecological research on bats.