2023 Annual Report - Flipbook - Page 39
A documentary on Bat World Sanctuary was created by Veganography Films, whose
focus is on animal and environmental protec}on, and inspiring posi}ve change.
Collaborated with biologists in Roanoke Rapids, NC regarding a large bat problem
they have with hundreds of thousands of bats roos}ng in older homes in the area.
We o昀昀ered insight on building a Bat Castle (following our success), as well as planning and fundraising for construc}on costs.
Teamed with a researcher at the Zoo and Conserva}on Science Program at O琀琀erbein University in order to create a non-lethal method of tes}ng bats for rabies by
recording vocaliza}on changes that occur with the disease.
Began talks with Noble Research Ins}tute LLC, an organiza}on that promotes soil
health principles in Agriculture (Regenera}ve Ranching). The company is isola}ng
DNA on guano samples from local bat houses to show proof of the varie}es of insects these bats are consuming and their bene昀椀t to ranchers. We will be providing
guano samples from bat species that have been posi}vely iden}昀椀ed.
Provided training and guidance, including nutri}on, housing and enrichment, to a
Cornell University researcher in order to implement the best care standards for the
bats while in their care.
Collaborated with Missouri State University to provide non-invasive wing }ssue
samples for genomic studies across a broad spectrum of species. By providing these
samples from bats in permanent care, the research team did not have to trap bats in
the wild. Informa}on about speci昀椀c individual bats involved was provided, and will
be included in forthcoming research papers, highligh}ng the value of working with
bat rehabilitators rather than the stressful trapping of bats in the 昀椀eld for data collec}on and sampling. These studies will help scien}sts understand and appreciate
the unique biology of bats without needlessly trapping, harves}ng or killing wild
bats.
Created a video on pup catchers showing that these life saving nets can be created
under not only bat houses but in barns, outside homes, and also under large roosts
in commercial areas. See batworld.org/how-to-create-nursery-colony-pup-catchers.
Aver years of speaking out, via social media, about photos showing the inhumane
handling methods of bats in the 昀椀eld, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has followed
our lead announcing a guide to bat photography }tled