The Digital Tradition version of this song is the one I've heard most often. I'd swear that it starts with the word "Hi" in most verses, but I've also seen it "I" and "Aye." Which is most common, and is there a correct one? To me, "I" just seems wrong. Am I right. Or was I wrong all along? And did I know I was wrong? (oh, wait, that's another song...)

Here's the DT version:

LEATHERWING BAT (DT)

Hi said the little leatherwing bat
I'll tell you the reason that
The reason that I fly in the night
Is because I lost my heart's delight

Howdy dowdy diddle all day
Howdy dowdy diddle all day
Howdy dowdy diddle all day
Lo lo lee da diddle lee o

Hi said the red bird sitting on a fence
Once I courted a handsome wench
She got saucy and from me fled
And ever since my head's been red

Hi said the bluebird as he flew
Once I courted a young gal too
She got saucy and wanted to go
And I got me a new string for my bow

Hi said the robin as he flew
When I was young I had two
If one wouldn't love me, the other would
Don't you think my notion's good

Hoot said the owl with eyes so bright
A lonesome day, a lonesome night
Thought I heard a pretty gal say
Court all night and sleep all day

Oh no no said the turtle dove
That's no way to gain your love
If you would have your heart's delight
Keep them awake both day and night

Hi said the little leatherwing bat
I'll tell you the reason that
The reason that I fly in the night
Is because I lost my heart's delight

@animal @kids @courtship
recorded by Dildine Family
filename[ LEATRBAT
TUNE FILE: LEATRBAT
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