The history of bats has been linked to various stories like that of vampires, blood-suckers, and a series of misfortunes and viruses over time. But even though they aren’t what you call “cute,” they do plenty to help the environment by eating agricultural pests‚ especially mosquitoes, and by their pollinating efforts.
According to The Nature Conservancy:
“Bats play a critical role in the environment and are the number-one predator of night-flying insects. Their value to U.S. agriculture has been estimated in a recent study at $23 billion annually.”
More than half of the bat species in the United States are in severe decline or listed as endangered, many from what is known as “white-nose syndrome.” If you want to help these night flyers, consider installing a Bat House. A safe place to live can play a vital role in the survival of many bat species, providing optimal roosting habitats which might otherwise be hard to find.
Bat Conservation International, a nongovernmental organization, was founded in 1982 by bat biologist Merlin Tuttle to prevent the rapid extinction of bats. The organization uses conservation, education, and research strategies to protect bat life. Its mission is to address threats, protect colonies, and prevent the extinction of endangered bat species.
Bat Appreciation Month seeks to commend bats’ contribution to society and address their growing extinction.
Learn more in our feature, The Truth About Bats, https://www.urbanprevue.com/?post_type=feature&p=5026&preview=true
If you’re interested in a Bat House, visit Backyard Nature Center in the Shops at Tallgrass.
https://www.urbanprevue.com/business/backyard-nature-center/