Bats of Trinidad and Tobago

Book excerpt: "Bats of Trinidad and Tobago by Geoffrey A Gomes and Fiona A Reid, serves as a comprehensive natural history and field guide to all bat species recorded in Trinidad and Tobago. It includes an introduction to bat biology, i.e. bat physiology and ecological habitats, species distribution, population status, dietary ecology, species reproduction biology, and echolocation behaviour where known. Insight into Amerindian bat mythologies, local folklore as it relates to bats, and the exuberance of the Carnival Bat are also explored. The ways in which Trinidadian bats are helping to advance knowledge in the biomedical fields of cardiology, neurology, and human female reproductive issues are revealed. The secret primordial relationships that exist between trees and bats are brought to light, including all indigenous, exotic and naturalised tree species known to benefit from seed-dispersal or pollination services provided by bats in the forests of Trinidad and Tobago. Practical guidance is provided on the humane eviction and exclusion of bats from dwellings and public buildings. Bats of Trinidad and Tobago is a wide-ranging, lavishly illustrated publication with full colour photos and art throughout"--Publisher's description.