Start Date
15-11-2024 2:45 PM
End Date
15-11-2024 3:00 PM
Description
Since 2019, Dr. Volker Bahn’s lab has been monitoring bat populations in the Runkle Woods and nearby sites, using acoustic detectors to track species presence and activity over time. With bats representing about 20% of all mammal species globally, their ecological role—particularly in insect control—is vital. The presentation highlights the diversity of local bat species, with 10 of Ohio's 11 expected species documented, ranging from the abundant big brown and red bats to the federally endangered Indiana and northern long-eared bats. Dr. Bahn discusses patterns in bat activity across years, potential drivers such as precipitation, and the concerning declines in smaller cave-dwelling species affected by white-nose syndrome. The talk integrates ecological insights with statistical modeling to understand trends and emphasize the importance of habitat protection and continued monitoring.
Repository Citation
Bahn, Volker, "Endangered Bats in the Runkle Woods" (2024). Runkle Woods Symposia. 11.
https://corescholar.libraries.wright.edu/woods_symposium/2024/novermber16/11
Endangered Bats in the Runkle Woods
Since 2019, Dr. Volker Bahn’s lab has been monitoring bat populations in the Runkle Woods and nearby sites, using acoustic detectors to track species presence and activity over time. With bats representing about 20% of all mammal species globally, their ecological role—particularly in insect control—is vital. The presentation highlights the diversity of local bat species, with 10 of Ohio's 11 expected species documented, ranging from the abundant big brown and red bats to the federally endangered Indiana and northern long-eared bats. Dr. Bahn discusses patterns in bat activity across years, potential drivers such as precipitation, and the concerning declines in smaller cave-dwelling species affected by white-nose syndrome. The talk integrates ecological insights with statistical modeling to understand trends and emphasize the importance of habitat protection and continued monitoring.
