Characterizing wing tears in common pipistrelles (Pipistrellus pipistrellus ): investigating tear distribution, wing strength, and possible causes

Journal of Mammalogy
Rana Osama S KhayatRobyn A Grant

Abstract

Bats have large, thin wings that are particularly susceptible to tearing. Anatomical specializations, such as fiber reinforcement, strengthen the wing and increase its resistance to puncture, and an extensive vasculature system across the wing also promotes healing. We investigated whether tear positioning is associated with anatomy in common pipistrelles (Pipistrellus pipistrellus). Wing anatomy was described using histological techniques, imaging, and material testing. Tear information, including type, position, time in rehabilitation, and possible causes, was collected from rehabilitators of injured bats across the United Kingdom. Results suggest that the position of the plagiopatagium (the most proximal wing section to the body), rather than its anatomy, influenced the number, location, and orientation of wing tears. While material testing did not identify the plagiopatagium as being significantly weaker than the chiropatagium (the more distal sections of the wing), the plagiopatagium tended to have the most tears. The position of the tears, close to the body and toward the trailing edge, suggests that they are caused by predator attacks, such as from a cat (Felis catus), rather than collisions. Consistent with this, 38% of...Continue Reading

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Citations

Feb 15, 2020·The Journal of Experimental Biology·Nathan W FullerCraig K R Willis
Jul 23, 2019·PloS One·Jan CichockiGrzegorz Gabryś
Aug 14, 2020·Ecology and Evolution·Rana O S KhayatKirsty J Shaw
Apr 4, 2021·Pathogens·Valeria B Salinas-RamosDanilo Russo

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