Wild mammals
Bat Week highlights ecological role of misunderstood mammals
Global event from Oct. 24-31 celebrates bats, which make up one-fifth of all mammals and provide vital ecosystem services like pollination.
Reported by Mongabay · · 1 min read
On the map: Kenya · Bats
Bat Week, observed globally from October 24 to 31, 2026, shines a light on bats, a diverse group that accounts for 20% of all mammal species.
Found on every continent except Antarctica, bats play key roles in ecosystems by controlling insect populations, pollinating plants, and dispersing seeds. Yet, despite their importance, much about them remains unknown.
In India, home to 135 known bat species, a recent nationwide study revealed gaps in knowledge. Seven species are classified as threatened by the IUCN, while 35 lack sufficient data for assessment. Researchers note that with fewer than 50 dedicated bat experts in the country, urgent action is needed to prioritize studies on species and regions.
New Zealand hosts only two surviving native land mammals: the long-tailed bat and the lesser short-tailed bat. A third species, the greater short-tailed bat, has not been seen since 1967 and is presumed extinct. Efforts like the Finding Franklin Bats project, involving over 180 volunteers, aim to survey bat populations and raise awareness among local communities.
Research efforts in Kenya
In Kenya’s Kwale County, teams led by Bat Conservation International are studying bats near the Three Sisters Caves. Using fine nets at dusk, they capture bats to measure traits like body size and wing length, seeking insights into their ecological roles and the impact of human activities on their habitats.
Educational initiatives, such as interviews with bat rescue experts, also help spread knowledge about these vital but often misunderstood creatures.
