Bats are the only flying mammals and with 1,420 species worldwide, they account for 20% of all mammal species. They can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Most are nocturnal and use echolocation to navigate and hunt at night. The vast majority eat insects, including many pest species, while others are important pollinators and seed dispersers. Some have quite unusual diets that include fish, frogs or even scorpions.
 
Over the past few decades bat populations have been declining at alarming rates and many species are now endangered. Globally roughly 25% of bats are considered to be at risk of extinction. Southern Africa has over 120 species but for many of these species we currently know very little about their distribution, ecology and conservation status.
 
Bats without Borders is committed to securing a future for bats in southern Africa through applied research, conservation advocacy, capacity strengthening and engagement. There are many ways to get involved, including helping us to promote a positive image of bats.