The 17th of April is International Bat Appreciation Day, a time to celebrate our flying, nocturnal companions. In addition to being a wonderful opportunity to binge-watch a few Batman movies, it’s also a chance to learn more about the crucial role bats play in the ecosystem and biodiversity. Contrary to conventional belief, there are over 1,400 different species of bats, and they are not blind. So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at International Bat Appreciation Day and all these winged mammals have to offer.
HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL BAT APPRECIATION DAY
Bat Conservation International (BCI) was established in 1982 by a group of concerned scientists who understood the significance of bat protection. Bats aid in pest control, produce nutrient-dense fertiliser for landowners, and pollinate fruit and blossoms. BCI’s mission is to protect bats and their habitats through education, conservation, and research.
Human activities such as deforestation, mining, and negligent tourism have resulted in a significant population decline of bats. Historically, bats have been understudied and misconstrued. They are frequently misunderstood as disease-spreaders, when in fact they keep the population of numerous parasites in check.
Between 2014 and 2018, the BCI identified 35 bat species as critically endangered, making their protection a top priority. These species are widespread, including in the United States, South America, and the Philippines.
The BCI incorporated International Bat Appreciation Day into our calendars to aid their cause and raise awareness of all that bats do for the environment. As you can see, bats serve a crucial role, and we should be grateful for their presence.
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5 FACTS ABOUT BATS
A varied diet
Depending on the species, bats consume a range of foods, including fruit, nectar, insects, and even blood.
Omnivorous consumers
A single brown bat can consume approximately 1,200 mosquitoes per hour.
They possess a rapid metabolism.
In roughly 20 minutes, bats can metabolise mangoes and other large foods.
Vampire bats do not feed on blood.
They instead pierce a wound and suck the blood.
There are over 1400 different species of bats.
That’s roughly one-fourth of all mammal species!
INTERNATIONAL BAT APPRECIATION DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 17 | Monday |
| 2024 | April 17 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | April 17 | Thursday |
| 2026 | April 17 | Friday |
| 2027 | April 17 | Saturday |
