Bat shows that disgusting looks might keep you fed

An astonishingly grotesque bat species has been discovered hiding out in two Vietnamese national parks, but its misshapen features may serve a practical, survival-of-the-fittest purpose. Scientists who discovered the Griffin's leaf-nosed bat (and who were attacked by leeches during the bat's capture) believe that the creature's leaf-like facial projections assist with "echolocation," in which the bat sends out sound waves to bounce off of and locate prey. The unfortunately visaged mammal, which now has to contend with these other homely beasts for "Ugliest Animal on Earth" honors, is receiving a horrified reaction online, but we say give the little guy a break -- he's just trying to get some grub.