The migratory common noctule, a species of bat common throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa, can anticipate optimal weather conditions, according to new research published in Biology Letters. In Germany, migratory common noctules (mostly females) travel several hundred miles to reach their destination, but very little is known about the factors that influence the timing of these journeys. Instead, the bats were waiting for a particular set of nighttime weather conditions that were favorable to flight. Specifically, the bats were flying at times of higher air pressure (a sign of sustained good weather) and tailwinds (flying into the wind sucks). “Later on, it is important to have nights with high pressure and clear nights regardless of the wind conditions.

Source: The North Africa Journal September 20, 2017 19:52 UTC