THE BATS 107 



the tragus appears to be the real ear. The ears are also folded 

 under the arm during sleep and hibernation. Sometimes when 

 this bat hovers like a humming-bird over foliage, picking off 

 moths and caterpillars and other insects, the ears are bent out- 

 wards and downwards, so that they hang down on either side of 

 the face like huge cheek pouches. When, however, the animal is 

 flying from place to place the ears are erected. When preparing 

 for repose the tail is curved in under the body. Undoubtedly 

 these huge ears are extremely sensitive, not only to sounds, but to 

 currents of air, and almost take the place of sight by the fine 

 perception they give the creature of its approach towards an 

 obstacle. Experiments made many years ago in France by a 

 zoologist who blinded these bats, showed that they were but little 

 embarrassed in their movements by the loss of sight. But when 

 in addition their ears were closed the creature became perfectly 

 helpless, and banged itself against obstacles. 



This bat is more nocturnal than most species of the Vesper- 

 tilionine and Myotidine sub-families, apparently remaining abroad 

 all through the night, though it may also be seen hawking insects 

 in the early twilight. Its voice is sometimes extremely shrill, 

 so much so that some ears are incapable of distinguishing its 

 squeaks, while others hear them distinctly above other sounds. 

 Bell writes : " At all hours through the dead of the night and 

 on the darkest nights, in the open fields or elsewhere, we have 

 heard the shrill clatter of the long-eared bat over our heads ; its 

 voice, once known, being easily recognised from that of any 

 other species." When actually interfered with the cry becomes 

 clear and piercing. 



The long-eared bat is a cleanly creature, assiduously re- 

 moving impurities from its fur at all times, and even assisting its 

 comrades to do so. They are affectionate one towards another, 

 though spiteful to other bats of different species, and very 

 playful. Their tameness in captivity, according to the accounts 

 given by Bell, is perfectly charming. They would fly to the 

 hand of any one who held up an insect, or even take with great 

 gentleness a little piece of raw meat from between the lips. If 



