Applied research

We are committed to conducting and supporting applied research that is conservation-driven, scientifically sound and contributes towards our understanding of the ecology and conservation of bats in southern Africa. Our research approach aims to be collaborative, informative and inclusive. A priority for us is to strengthen in-country capacity, focusing on early career professionals across southern Africa. As a small charity our resources are limited but we aim to provide support, training and where possible equipment. With limited resources, we prioritise student or intern research projects that are aligned with our broad priority areas, as listed below:

Investigating human-induced impacts on bats and their habitats

• currently prioritising cave-dwelling bats and fruit bats
• drivers influencing bat persecution
• bats and land use change
• potential impact of wind energy developments on bats

Understanding the impact of bats in the environment

• bats as bioindicators
• bats as providers of ecosystem services