Bats have a number of different ways for communicating, and it is true that purring is one of them. Most species of bats use the same main form of communication, through scent. This is especially true during times of mating. This scent is produced from nasal glands that enlarger during the mating season. Bats make a variety of different sounds that seem to be related to communication, or expressing emotions with other bats.

Some species of bats have been known to purr, buzz, and even click, again, usually before mating. When mother bats and their pups recognize one another, they make audible sounds and the young bats can be seen vocalizing an isolation cry that helps the imprinting process between mother and offspring. Some species of bats may also honk to help prevent midair collisions between foraging adults.