How do bats use echolocation to find prey?

Bats use echolocation to navigate and hunt by emitting high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off objects and return as echoes. By analyzing the time it takes for the sound waves to return, bats can determine the distance, size, shape, and even the texture of objects, including prey. This ability is particularly useful for insectivorous bats that hunt in complete darkness. The process is highly efficient, allowing bats to catch small insects mid-flight and navigate through complex environments like caves and dense forests.