Many people seem to loathe bats because they are 

 '^Mouse like." In reality, they are not closely related 

 to the Rodents and occupy an entirely different order. 



Bats exhibit a wide variety of habits and struc- 

 tures. Most of our native forms hibernate during the 

 winter, but there are a number of species which mi- 

 grate from the northern regions at the approach of cold 

 weather, in much the same manner as do birds. 



Usually the hibernating forms assemble in great 

 numbers in caves or in hollow trees where they enter a 

 comatose state, remaining inactive until insect life 

 again becomes active. In the caves they sometimes 

 cover the walls and ceilings, or arrange themselves in 

 huge clusters, apparently for the purpose of keeping 

 warm. The writer has spent considerable time in study- 

 ing hibernation of bats and has found that they are 

 easily awakened from their sleep and do not hesitate 

 to bite. A pair of kid gloves, however, proves adequate 

 protection. When disturbed in hibernation, the bats 

 will frequently "take to the air." This should be 

 avoided by persons who are interested in their welfare 

 because activity stimulates the metabolic rate and 

 energy is used which the creatures need in reserve for 

 the long sleep ahead. Since insect life is dormant, 

 there is no way of replenishing the supply and the ani- 

 mals starve before Spring. 



Bats are characterized from the other mammals 

 by their flying habits for which they are admirably 

 adapted. The true, active, flight of bats must not be 

 confused with the passive, gliding flight of the dying 

 squirrel. 



The bats are mammals which have the fore limbs 

 modified for flight. The bones of the arms and fingers 



-'i>i 76 >*- 



