Barsha Adhikari
Nepal provides habitat for 56 species of bats, which are the least studied group of mammals in the country. Bats are slowly gaining attention through research, yet conservation efforts are still lacking. In an effort to support bat conservation, this project seeks to inform people and seeks to change their behaviour. Camps dedicated to conservation awareness will promote waste reduction around the cave and the decrease of activities that disrupt bats and their habitat, either directly or indirectly. Bat roosting habitat will be improved by these educational initiatives. Promoting the usage of organic fertilizer among the villagers who live nearby caves will lessen the amount of dangerous chemicals they use in their home gardens, which will improve the availability of prey. Additionally, maintaining and promoting a bat garden will draw insects, which greatly increase the bats' source of prey.
Bat Watching. © Shristi Neupane.
The dissemination of project results will inform the general public through various mediums such as radio awareness programs and blog sharing etc., and encourage many conservationists and enthusiasts towards the conservation of bats. The long reaching objective of the project intends to achieve a bat friendly community, bats secure zone, and motivated and active community involvement in the conservation of bats.