Title
Confronting the dogma: A reply
Author(s)
O'Farrell M.J., Corben C., Gannon W.L., Miller B.W.
Published
1999
Publisher
Journal of Mammalogy
Abstract
Barclay (1999) criticized the qualitative approach for acoustic identification of species of bats (O'Farrell et al., 1999) on the basis of intraspecific variation due to geography, habitat, and species-assemblage factors. However, variations described to date represent minor variations in specific parameters of call structure and, with experience, present no difficulty in discriminating among species. Certain species, under certain circumstances, emit calls that may be confused with other species. These calls represent a small percentage of the total repertoire. Experience reveals these cases, and such calls should be judged unidentifiable. Barclay was concerned about a qualitative approach but stated that quantification has shown variation sufficient to negate the ability to identify species. The qualitative approach avoids this problem because it is not sensitive to minor quantitative differences.

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PUB12819