A transfer entropy analysis of leader-follower interactions in flying bats

In this paper, we present a transfer entropy analysis applied to the 3D paths of bats flying in pairs. The 3D trajectories are one-dimensionally characterized as inverse curvature time series to allow for entropy calculations. In addition to a traditional formulation of information flow between pair members, a path coupling hypothesis is pursued with time-delay modifications implemented in such a way as to not change the Markovianity of the process. With this modification, we find trends that suggest a leader-follower interaction between the front bat and the rear bat, although statistical significance is not reached due in part to the small number of pairs considered.