Aerodynamic Characteristics of Some Neotropical Bats

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Abstract
An analysis was made of (I) the degree of correspondence of weight, wing surface area, and linear dimensions, and (2) the relationship between aerodynamic considerations, and flight and feeding behavor, for 25 species of Neotropical bats. Observed relationships of wing span versus wing area and wing span versus weight closely approach expected values, whereas observed and expected relationships of wing area versus weight do not closely correspond. Aspect ratios and wing loadings also are reported. Values for the above-mentioned features differ according to flight and feeding behavior of different species of bats. The importance of the uropatagium for flight and feeding is also examined.