Forget about the myths and legends that have besmirched their reputation – bats play an important role in the ecosystem!
Bat species represent a quarter of all mammalian species. Each is individual in terms of its hunting strategies and use of bio sonar – but it is true to say that most of them intensify their ultrasound calls as they approach prey, not only to help them find it but also to alert other bats as to the presence of food nearby.
Bats are carriers of zoonotic infections and their degree of resistance to dangerous viruses, like Ebola and Marburg, is not clear as they can carry viruses that can be deadly in humans without becoming ill. It is likely that there is a connection between their airborne lifestyle and degree of virus tolerance in response to free DNA in the cytosol.
Bats are a popular attraction for wildlife enthusiasts as they combine furry mammalian features with exotic traits but 1,261 bat species are included in the IUCN Red List. This is explained by three main factors: habitat loss, the loss of insect prey and the use of pesticides. In some places, for instance the island of Makira, bats are hunted for their meat and teeth.
Conservation efforts are increasing and ‘bat-watching tours’ in cities like Dusseldorf are becoming popular. It is important to recognize that learning more about the bat’s immune system and protecting their habitat could help to avoid disease outbreaks. Bats could also help us by playing a significant role in natural pest control.
Gross, M. Why we should care about bats. Current Biology 29, R1163–R1173, November 18, 2019. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2019.10.053