Abstract
Bats are the most diverse mammalian order in the Philippines and whilst many endemic and threatened species have been documented, they are also probably the least well-known order. Negros Island (central Visayas, Philippines) represents one of the ten highest-ranking sites globally for megachiropteran diversity, and is listed as a priority area for the establishment of protected areas for megachiropteran conservation. It is also listed as a priority site for survey work. The current study undertook mist-netting, roost and observation surveys of the bat fauna of Danjugan Island, off the west coast of Negros Occidental, to inventory the bat species present and to provide baseline ecological information to identify key areas of conservation concern. Eight species – five megachiropterans and three microchiropterans – were recorded over the course of the study, representing over 10% of the total Philippine bat fauna. Four of the species are new records for the island, and three are IUCN Red Listed. The results show that the island provides important cave- and tree-roosting areas for the local populations of several endemic and globally endangered species and sub-species. Already designated with reserve status, and with an environmental education programme established within the local communities, the island may be considered of national and global importance for bat conservation. Recommendations are given for future management.
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O’malley, R., King, T., Turner, C.S. et al. The Diversity and Distribution of the Fruit Bat Fauna (Mammalia, Chiroptera, Megachiroptera) of Danjugan Island, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, Philippines (with Notes on the Microchiroptera). Biodivers Conserv 15, 43–56 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-004-2931-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-004-2931-x