Bat appreciation day commemorates these wonderful animals that provide such fundamental roles in the ecosystems in which they live. There are more than 1,300 species of bats around the world which makes them the second most common mammal species after rodents. These animals play vital ecological roles in the ecosystem. From acting as pollinators to pest control, and many other roles in between, bats are valuable organisms with a large diversity amongst the species and need to be protected. Insect-eating bats are reported to eat millions of insects a night and act as a natural insect control for both humans and plants. Nectar-drinking and fruit-eating bats help pollinate various types of plants and fruit species. Here in the US, bat populations are on the decline due to human activities. Bat species in general are threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation that is happening around the world. Many bat species live in and around forests and rely upon trees as shelter and protection.
Another threat includes white-nose syndrome which is a fungal disease that has been killing off many bats here in North America. White-nose syndrome causes high death rates which in turn leads to a rapid population decline among bat species that are affected. White-nose syndrome is a fungal infection that spreads during hibernation months in different ways (physical contact with an affected bat, infected surfaces on caves or mines, or human exposure through cross-contamination on gear or clothing). Hibernating bats affected by this wake up to warm temperatures more frequently, which results in the overuse of fat reserves which can cause starvation before spring arrives. Conservation work to help protect and increase bat populations includes the installation of bat houses which help provide shelter for bat populations. The continuation of bat research which includes population studies hopes to ensure bat populations around the country continue to grow.
Another way we can help bat populations is by spreading bat awareness. As spring approaches, bat roosting (nesting) occurs which is a very vulnerable time for female bats. April 15th starts the beginning of roosting season here in Florida, so be aware of roosting bats in your area. Bats tend to roost in more natural areas but can favor man-made structures during this maternity season. This is important to note because during this season it is illegal to exclude bats from structures during this vulnerable time. Due to this, protections for bats in structures are also included in the rule for Taking Nuisance Wildlife. This rule does not allow the use of pesticides or poisons for the purpose of harming, killing, or deterring bats. It is also illegal to touch or interact with bats that are injured, sick, or dead. If you are having issues with roosting bats, please reach out to the FWC (listed below) here in Florida or your local wildlife center for help and other resources.
Resources Used:
Bats, facts and photos (nationalgeographic.com)
Living With Bats | FWC (myfwc.com)
What Is White-nose Syndrome? (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)