Bats

Abstract

Abstract One-quarter of all mammals are bats and they are found all over the world. This book covers all the bats and their natural history and biology. Starting with a look at their origins and evolution, and a complete review of all known families, the topics range from the most distinctive features of bats (echolocation of prey, and flight), through to their behaviour as individuals and groups, their modes of reproduction and development, and their interactions with the environment and other organisms. In addition, by bringing in subjects such as adaptive radiation, optimal foraging, co-evolution, reciprocal altruism, and predator--prey arms races, the author gives meaning to the bare facts derived from observation and sets the fascinating natural history of bats in a modern biological context. Overall, this book provides an up-to-date and accurate picture of how bats spend their lives and will be an indispensable reference work for both professional and amateur naturalists.