Leisler's bat  (Nyctalus leisleri)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Authentication

Amy Dunkley, The Bat Conservation Trust, London.
http://www.bats.org.uk

Glossary

  • Echolocation: detecting objects by reflected sound. Used by bats and odontocete cetaceans (toothed whales, dolphins and porpoises) for orientation and to detect and locate prey.
  • Hibernation: a winter survival strategy characteristic of some mammals in which an animal's metabolic rate slows down and a state of deep sleep is attained. Whilst hibernating, animals survive on stored reserves of fat that they have accumulated in summer. In insects, the correct term for hibernation is 'diapause', a temporary pause in development and growth. Any stage of the lifecycle (eggs, larvae, pupae or adults) may enter diapause, which is typically associated with winter.

References

  1. Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS) (October, 2009)
    http://www.itis.gov/
  2. Schober, W. and Grimmberger, E. (1987) A Guide to Bats of Britain and Europe.Hamlyn Publishing Group Limited, London.
  3. Morris, P. (1993) A Red Data Book for British Mammals.Mammal Society, Bristol.
  4. Burton, J.A. (1991) Field Guide to the Mammals of Britain and Europe.Kingfisher Books, London.
  5. Macdonald, D.W. and Tattersall, F.T. (2001) Britain's Mammals: The Challenge for Conservation.The Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Oxford University. Available at: www.wildcru.org
  6. Altringham, J.D. (1996) Bats: Biology and Behaviour.Oxford University Press, Oxford.
  7. Bats and the Law - a quick guide. Bat Conservation Trust (August, 2002)
    http://www.bats.org.uk/
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