Citizen Science Proves Essential for Bat Research and Conservation

New research from Murdoch University's School of Environmental and Conservation Sciences underscores the importance of collaboration between universities, non-profits, government agencies, and community members for collecting accurate data and integrating it into policy and practice. The findings were published in The British Ecological Society Journal under the title "Citizen science for bat research and conservation: An international scoping review."

Key Findings

Citizen science is playing an increasingly important role in bat research in Australia, helping us better understand our bats and support conservation efforts, according to lead researcher and ecologist Kelly Sheldrick.

The scoping review found a growing number of citizen science projects in bat research and conservation worldwide. Recent research is expanding geographic coverage, advancing acoustic monitoring technology, and strengthening links to conservation outcomes.

Citizen contributions are described as essential for advancing understanding of bat ecology globally, particularly for large geographic areas and long-term data collection.

This large-scale data collection on bat distribution and seasonal activity can guide habitat protection efforts, inform land-use planning, and improve early detection of population declines.

How Citizens Contribute

Common methods used in citizen science bat projects include:

• Acoustic surveys
• Bat roost emergent counts
• Technical field research
• Desktop analyses of existing datasets
• Interviews and questionnaires
• Bat box monitoring

All surveys are conducted with relevant permits and under the supervision of trained ecologists.

The Ecological Importance of Bats

Bats can get a bad rap, but they play important ecological roles, and the value of bats often goes unrecognised, Sheldrick noted.

Bats comprise approximately 25% of all mammal species and are found on every continent except Antarctica. Their ecological roles are vital:

• They help control insect populations, providing natural pest control that benefits agriculture and reduces chemical pesticide use.
• They contribute to pollination and seed dispersal, supporting overall ecosystem health.

Threats and Public Guidance

Bats face multiple anthropogenic threats, including habitat clearing, collisions with wind turbines and persecution, often driven by fear or misinformation, Sheldrick said.

For the public encountering bats, Sheldrick advised: "If you find a bat in your roof or house, don't panic and don't touch it." She recommended simple steps like leaving an exit option open, turning off overhead fans, and dimming the lights to encourage the bat to fly away safely.

Further Information

• The Australian Bat Society website provides information on what to do if bats are found on property and lists opportunities to participate in community events and bat conservation.
• Murdoch University's School of Environmental and Conservation Sciences offers programs designed to combine environmental passion with scientific expertise to protect threatened ecosystems.