Abstract
AbstractThe theoretically optimal shape of a bat's wing changes with flight mode (Norberg, 1987; Norberg & Rayner, 1987) and several studies have shown this theory to be largely born out in practise (Aldridge & Rautenbach, 1987; Norberg & Rayner, 1987; Crome & Richards, 1988). For instance, bats with wings of relatively low surface area (high wing loading) that are also relatively long and thin (high aspect ratio) tend to be fast, straight fliers spending most of their flying time foraging or commuting in open areas such as pasture or above the forest canopy (Norberg & Rayner, 1987). In such bats manoeuvrability is improved by the possession of small, pointed wing tips to reduce drag. In contrast bats with wings of relatively high surface area that are also relatively short and wide with large, rounded wing tips tend to be slow, highly manoeuvrable fliers foraging in cluttered habitats such as woodland (Norberg & Rayner, 1987).
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.