Bulletin of the National Speleological Society - ISSN 0146-9517
Volume 34 Number 2: 31-32 - April 1972

A publication of the National Speleological Society

Cave Bats: Their Ecology, Physiology, Behavior, and Future Survival
Robert E. Henshaw

Abstract

Cave bats, with their nocturnal activity, winter hibernation or migration, use of remote caves for colonies, and feeding on noxious flying insects, might be thought to be relatively safe from man-induced ecological destruction. Yet the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) was recently placed on the Endangered Species List, and other species may be declining. Present understanding of ecology, physiology, and behavior of cave bats may demonstrate their low adaptability and the precariousness of their niche. Because of their Count Dracula public image, bats receive little direct protection in conservation movements. Biologists, speleologists, and spelunkers must play an increasingly important role in protecting these highly beneficial flying mammals.

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