A New Name for the Mexican Red Bat   By: E. Raymond (Eugene Raymond) Hall (1902-1986)

A New Name for the Mexican Red Bat by E. Raymond Hall is an exceptionally insightful and thought-provoking book that delves into the field of mammalogy and the fascinating world of bats. Hall, an esteemed researcher and expert in his field, brings his wealth of knowledge and passion to every page, making this book an engaging and enlightening read.

One of the standout aspects of this work is Hall's ability to blend scientific rigor with accessible language, making complex concepts easily comprehensible to readers of all backgrounds. He effortlessly guides us through the world of bat taxonomy, thoroughly explaining the intricate process of naming and categorizing these remarkable creatures. Furthermore, Hall provides a thorough historical background on previous studies and findings, contextualizing his own discoveries within the broader scope of bat research.

Hall's attention to detail is evident in his vivid descriptions of the Mexican red bat and its behavior, habitat, and ecological interactions. His ability to bring these bats to life on the page truly allows readers to develop a deep appreciation for these often misunderstood creatures. The genuine enthusiasm he expresses for his subject matter is contagious, as he showcases the beauty and intricacy of nature's designs.

In addition to his scientific exploration, Hall also explores the cultural significance of bats in Mexican folklore, enriching the narrative with captivating stories and legends. This interdisciplinary approach not only adds depth to the book but also broadens the reader's understanding of the broader impact of bats on human societies.

Throughout the book, Hall's writing style remains engaging and accessible, making it a pleasurable read for both casual audiences and experts in the field. His well-organized structure ensures a seamless journey through the subject matter, allowing readers to follow his arguments and conclusions effortlessly.

If there is any criticism to be made, it would be that the book occasionally veers into technical details that may overwhelm readers who are not well-versed in the field. However, Hall generally does an admirable job of balancing depth with accessibility, ensuring that even those less familiar with the subject matter can still follow along and gain valuable insights.

Overall, A New Name for the Mexican Red Bat is a remarkable contribution to the field of mammalogy and an essential read for anyone interested in the study of bats or the fascinating world of nature. Hall's expertise, combined with his engaging writing style, makes this book a true gem that will undoubtedly captivate readers and foster a newfound appreciation for these extraordinary creatures.

First Page:

When Gerrit S. Miller, Jr., published his "Revision of the North American Bats of the Family Vespertilionidae" (N. Amer. Fauna, 13:1 140, 3 pls., 39 figs. in text, October 16, 1897), the red bat, Lasiurus borealis , was known from the southern half of Mexico but he did not know that the hoary bat, Lasiurus cinereus , also occurred there. Therefore, the name A[talapha]. mexicana Saussure (Revue et magasin de zoologie, 13 (ser. 2): 97, March, 1861) that clearly pertained to a lasiurine bat, almost certainly from southern Mexico, was applied by Miller ( op. cit. : 111) to the red bat as a subspecific name. Subsequently, the hoary bat, Lasiurus cinereus cinereus (Beauvois 1796), was shown to occur in southern Mexico... Continue reading book >>