The researchers found that vampire bats — like blood-sucking insects — are capable of metabolizing amino acids as a primary energy source.

This is peculiar since in most animals, including humans, physical activity is fueled by burning carbohydrates and fat, while amino acids contribute only about five to 10 per cent of the energy. “In most animals, amino acids are a fuel of last resort.

While a bat study might make you think of flying, vampire bats have another trick up their sleeves, and it involves a pretty remarkable running ability. This allows the bats to hunt their prey along the ground, but also means they can fit on treadmills meant for rodents – though not without a few modifications.

These suckers are fast. Vampire bats hit the treadmills in a unique study in which scientists tested how the creatures metabolized the blood they feed on, according to a newly published study. The study,