The Response of Bats and Their Insect Prey to Different Coastal Upland Habitat Management Techniques
About the Project
Declining bat populations necessitates a need to understand how different land management techniques influence bat activity. This study assessed the influences of different coastal upland habitat management techniques, such as mulching, prescribed fire, and select cut, on forest bat activity within the Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge and National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Acoustic recorders were used to monitor bat activity and insect and vegetation surveys were used to assess influences on bat activity across different land management techniques.
Results
Results demonstrate that overall bat activity was similar across different land management techniques, however larger species adapted for open-space flying were shown to be less active within dense forests such as the select cut technique areas. Findings from this study suggest that various land management techniques can influence bat activity differently.
Bats of the Bayou – Mississippi Coastal Bat Outreach
Explore the fascinating world of one of the most misunderstood, yet beneficial, mammals – the bat! Our local bat expert is available to do presentations and outreach events upon request. Topics range from general bat information, common myths, bat houses, to ongoing research and conservation efforts. Presentations and activities are available for all ages.
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