THE PIPISTRELLE, NOCTULE, AND SEROTINE 



277 



The noctule differs from the pipistrelle in being a tree-haunting bat, and like- 

 wise a gregarious species. In winter, however, its retreat may be either in hollow 

 trees, or under roofs and eaves of houses, in which situations numbers may fre- 

 quently be found together. It appears early in the evening, and its flight is partic- 

 ularly strong and rapid, and takes place high in the air. Its favorite food consists 

 of cockchafers and fernchafers, in pursuit of which it may be seen on summer eve- 

 nings hawking round large trees, especially oaks. An unpleasant odor is character- 

 istic of this bat. 



"The noctule," writes Bell, " is essentially adapted for the capture and masti- 

 cation of coleopterous insects. The broad muzzle and strong jaws are found quite 



THE 



(Natural size.) 



equal to the reduction of the stubborn elytra of beetles as large as the cockchafer 

 (of which, according to Kuhl, he will consume as many as thirteen, one after the 

 other), and the wings are in no way deficient in power when in pursuit of these 

 insects. During the fine midsummer evenings, when the cockchafers have become 

 abundant, and you hear them humming on every side, the noctule is in his glory. 

 Then he flies high and straight, and you hear his shrill but clear voice as he passes 

 overhead, interrupting himself to dart at some prey, and then passing on. But an 

 observer will not watch his movements long on such an occasion without noticing a 



