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Horseshoe Bats: Rhinolophidae

Horseshoe Bats And People

People have caused the decline in many species of horseshoe bats by destroying their habitat. Altering or disturbing these bats' habitat can indirectly reduce their prey. The use of insecticides, a chemical used to kill or control insects, has also reduced the population of the bats' prey.

SPECIES RECOVERY

With a population that has dwindled down to an estimated 5,000 individuals, the greater horseshoes are one of England's most rare bats. Concerned about extinction, the country has taken steps to help this species once again flourish. In 1998 the English Nature Greater Horseshoe Bat Project was launched with the prime goal to increase the species population by 25 percent by the year 2010. With awareness, education, and specially designated roosting sites, the number of recorded births in 2003 had reached record levels (228). Warmer winters and a reduction in the use of chemicals and pesticides in farming also contributed to population growth.

Additional topics

Animal Life ResourceMammalsHorseshoe Bats: Rhinolophidae - Physical Characteristics, Habitat, Behavior And Reproduction, Horseshoe Bats And People, Conservation Status, Greater Horseshoe Bat (rhinolophus Ferrumequinum): Species Accounts - GEOGRAPHIC RANGE, DIET