Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge

Home | Aerodynamics | Projects | People | Publications | Facilities | Current Opportunities | Funding | Contact Information

>> Back <<

Aerodynamics of bat flight.

The majority of studies on bat flight concentrate upon wing morphology and wingbeat kinematics. There has been little quantitative work upon the aerodynamics of bat flight. Investigation into this area, tied in with current work on Pterosaur flight, would give a more complete understanding of the performance of membranous wings over the range of Reynolds numbers relevant to vertebrate flight.

This study aims to break down the morphological, mechanical and kinematic parameters of most aerodynamic significance to bat flight. Measurement of the aerodynamic forces produced during gliding flight provides a platform from which an accurate analysis of flapping flight can be made. Megabats are known to glide for a substantial part of their flight time.

Current work is based upon two species of megabat: Rousettus aegyptiacus, the Dog-faced Bat; and Pteropus rodricensis, the Rodrigue's Fruit Bat. Wind tunnel testing allows quantitative and qualitative investigation of any morphological parameters affecting glide performance. 3D films of the two model species in gliding flight provide a useful cross-check for wind tunnel tests.

Taking morphological measurements from Rousettus specimens in the field

Funding:  BBSRC

>> Back <<

Last updated July 2004
Questions and Comments to: Animal Flight Webmaster.