A recent study found that taking over of natural habitats of bats by humans was a huge threat to the species. Several bat colonies in the state have ceased to exist due to development, renovation in old structures or by pest control. The research paper was called “Distribution of bats in south-western region of Deccan, Maharashtra-India and conservation recommendations,” and published in Taprobanica, an international journal. Sujit Narwade, a scientist from Bombay Natural History Societ said it was the first time an extensive study on bats was carried out in Deccan region. This study was undertaken to understand the distribution of bat species in south-west Maharashtra. Eleven bat species were reported from the study area that covered the four districts of Solapur, Osmanabad and parts of Pune and Satara.
The study has found that many old structures such as houses, caves, temples, which are habitat for bats, were under renovation. Road construction, township projects, tourism, development at agricultural land and removing of natural vegetation were also affecting the bats. The study observed that bats were sensitive to disturbances from people. Bat colonies have been exterminated by pest control operators and public health department has been responsible for their elimination in urban areas. Some mortality is due to trapping in nets placed around fruit crops and vineyards. Narwade said that forts, temples and sacred groves were important habitats for bats and should remain untouched by renovation. Steps should be taken to protect the natural roosting habitats
The paper can be used for further studies of the eco-system provided by bats like eating insects, pests and pollination to some extent. The bats play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem in different ways. Fruit bats act as flower pollinators and seed dispersal agents of forest and mangrove species, while insectivorous bats have a major role in controlling insect pest population in nature. Mahesh Gaikwad, a researcher from Satara district pointed out that the many roosting sites for bats were no longer visible. In the 1930s, roosting sites for bats were reported in Karla and Bhaja caves near Lonavla. Now not a single species of bats is found here. In many old structures, renovations works like painting, blocking the openings, wiring, among others, have destroyed the habitat of bats. Tourism is another threat.
Source: Times of India, 30 July 2012, Internet edition
