1 JANUARY 2000, Page 23

Faecal facts

From Mr Sam Whitbread Sir: Bat droppings are easily distinguished from those of mice (Country life, 4 Decem- ber) by rubbing them between finger and thumb. Mouse droppings are slimy whereas those of the bat are powdery.

If, however, Leanda de Lisle finds her fingers are stained red, then I'm afraid she has a vampire problem.

Sam Whitbread

Southill Park, Bedfordshire