Philippine E-Journals

Preliminary results of the cave bat assessment conducted at Central Negros, Philippines

Reynaldo Tababa | Mary Ann Dagunan | Bayani Dejano | Shem De La Cruz | Brian Gutierrez | Michael Lawton Alcala | Leonardo Averia

 

Abstract:

This paper presents our observations on bat species composition and threats to bats. The observations were based on a survey on four caves located in the municipality of Mabinay and city of Kabankalan. The primary method used to capture bats for species determination was mist netting. Threats to bats and bat cave habitats were initially assessed using the interview method. At least 15 species of bats belonging to 4 families representing the Orders Microchiroptera (insect bats) and Megachiroptera (fruit bats) were identified. Threats to bat population were primarily attributed to hunting while guano and quarrying were identified as the primary causes of cave habitat disturbance. Commonly hunted species i n c l u d e d E o n y c t e r i s s p p . a n d R o u s e t t u s amplexicaudatus. Recommendations to mitigate threats to bat and bat cave habitats are also presented to include the strict implementation of the Wildlife and Cave Acts.