Tent-Use by the Bat Rhinophylla pumilio (Phyllostomidae: Carolliinae) in French Guiana

Abstract

This is the first report of a non-Stenodermatine neotropical bat using tents. Tents in the palm Astrocaryum sciophilum used by Rhinophylla pumilio (Carolliininae) in French Guiana, are characterized by the typical V shape incision in the leaf blade. Additionally, the long inferior spines were cut in the roosting area. Using radiotelemetry R. pumilio and Artibeus gnomus (Stenodermatinae), another tent-user, were monitored to determine their response to the replacement of tents by intact leaves or by new artificial tents, and to the introduction of new spines to the roosting area. No actual tent-making was observed but spine-cutting was achieved by R. pumilio. Judging from nocturnal observations, tent-use is interpreted as a means of protection from adverse weather and predators during feeding periods.