Abstract
Roosts are vital for the survival of many species, and how individuals
choose one site over another is affected by various ecological factors.
Biomechanical constraints could also affect roost selection,
particularly in volant taxa that require sites with easy access, thereby
reducing costs (i.e., predation, accidents). To date, no studies have
established an association between landing performance and roost-site
selection, as predicted by biomechanical constraints associated with
flight. We aim to determine roost-site selection in disc-winged bats
(Thyroptera tricolor), a species known to roost within developing
tubular leaves. This study is coupled with various experiments that
measure how a conspicuous apex affects landing tactics and performance.
We show that T. tricolor prefers leaves with a longer apex, the
space typically used for landing. Bats also approach and enter these
leaves more consistently, increasing task performance while reducing the
risk of injuries.