THE BATS 



105 



the ears are nearly joined at the base by a prominent rounded lobe. 

 The inner portion of the ear conch is supported by three thin, 

 slender, longitudinal cartilages. These cartilages serve to erect 



The Ears of the Long-eared Bat : to show 

 the tragus, or earlet. Note also the position 

 of the folded ears. 



A. Ears of the Long-eared Bat (half again as large 

 as life). 



B. The Long-eared Bat (life size), showing ears 

 pressed against the sides and tragus erect. 



and stiffen the conch. The inner margin of the ear is covered 

 with short hair, and is bent back from the middle cartilage into 

 a broad longitudinal fold. The ears are very flexible, and quite 

 under the control of the creature's muscles and tendons ; they 



