– Bats play a crucial role in pollination and pest control
– Habitat loss increases risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks
– Protecting bat populations supports biodiversity and human health
On International Bat Appreciation Day (April 17, 2025), conservationist Benneth Obitte emphasized the essential role bats play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and preventing disease outbreaks. Bats contribute to pollination, seed dispersal, and insect control, benefiting agriculture and biodiversity.
Obitte highlighted that human activities such as deforestation and hunting disrupt bat habitats, increasing the risk of zoonotic diseases like Marburg virus. He noted that species like the chocolate fruit bat are heavily hunted, leading to population declines.
Protecting bat habitats and reducing human-wildlife conflict are critical steps in safeguarding both environmental and public health. Conservation efforts not only preserve biodiversity but also help prevent future pandemics.
