SOME REMARKABLE TYPES 



45 



ments in the shape of fine threads, yet they flew in and out of 

 this tangle without once touching a single thread. 



When at rest bats usually hang head downwards, suspended 

 by their hind-legs, though this position is occasionally reversed, 

 when the claw upon the thumb is used for suspension. 



During the winter bats hibernate ; that is to say, they pass 



FIG. 12. The long-eared bat, to show the enormous size of the ears. The outer 

 and larger portion of the ear " tragus " can be folded back when the animal is 

 at rest, leaving the antitragus in a vertical position, and simulating a true ear. 

 (After Sir Harry Johnston.) 



the colder months in a state of torpor ; though fine mild days, 

 in mid-winter, will draw them forth for an hour or 

 two. 



Hollow trees, the roofs of houses, crevices in rocks and 

 ives form the sleeping and hibernating places of these creatures ; 



