Relative Abundance and Local Knowledge on Bats in Pagang-Pagang Cave, Eastern Leyte

Archie Tulin, Berna Lou Aba, Arturo Pasa

Abstract


Bats constitute about one-fourth of the total mammals on earth that help keep the ecosystems functioning. This study was conducted to determine bat species' relative abundance, and the local's knowledge that affect their existence. Bat sampling was carried out using mist nets, while interviews were undertaken for the evaluation of the local's knowledge on this species. Results revealed two fruit bats; Rousettus amplexicaudatus and Ptenochirus jagori and three insectivore bats Rhinolophus arcuatus, Hipposideros diadema, and Myotis macrotarsus (Near Threatened). Despite their ecological importance, anthropogenic threats like bat harvesting by the locals have affected their abundance in the area. Increasing people's awareness about the importance of these species through information and education campaign and implementation of conservation program in the area are viewed relevantly for the sustainable population of bats in Pagang-pagang Cave.


Keywords


fruit bats; insectivore bats; anthropogenic threats; conservation

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Full Text: JST 19

DOI: 10.5281/jst.v4i1.37

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