Bats

The typical bat costume is a black or brown skin-tight outfit. The head mask, usually crafted by a professional, covers the entire face and head. It features a papier-mâché face with prominent teeth, a nose, and round eyes. The wearer typically sees through the open mouth of the mask or lifts it like a visor to catch a breath. The costume includes shoes covered with long socks, to which claws are attached, and a second sole is added to the bottom of the shoe to protect the stockings. The wings, made from wire and bamboo, can span 12 to 15 feet and are covered in the same fabric as the outfit. These wings are fastened to the costume with hooks and eyes, zippers, or sometimes by sewing. Many bat masqueraders may carry a real stuffed bat to emphasise the authenticity of their costume.