BEHAVIOR OF PETER TENT-MAKING BAT, URODERMA-BILOBATUM, AT MATERNITY ROOSTS IN COSTA-RICA

This study examined behaviors associated with the formation of maternity groups by tent-making bats (Uroderma bilobatum). Both male and female bats arrived at the roost area in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, in June, coincident with the early rainy season. Although 21 tents were occupied during the 6-week study, 60% of the bats roosted in one of two tents. All females captured during the study were pregnant, and parturition occurred fairly synchronously in early July. The maternity groups lack complete sexual segregation and seem to lack strong bonds between roostmates. Grouping apparently provides thermoregulatory benefits to the bats.