Wings of the night: The natural history of bats

For most of us, bats are one of the most enigmatic creatures that normally evoke a sense of mystery, fear and even revulsion. The main reasons for this pitiable attitude towards these animals are rampant myths and misconceptions about them that prevail in our society. The following article is an attempt to present these animals in scientific light and to dispel any misconception about these misunderstood creatures. Uttam Saikia is working with the Zoological Survey of India at High Altitude Zoology Field Station, Solan in Himachal Pradesh.