Night visits in the Cerrado

contributions to demystifying bats in nature education activities

Abstract

The peculiar characteristics of bats have contributed to their social stigma. Despite research on their role in ecosystems, access to studies remains limited, perpetuating prejudices. To highlight the ecological importance of bats, an experiment was conducted, visiting the Nature Trail established in a fragment of the Cerrado at the main campus of the Federal University of São Carlos, focusing on chiropterans. This activity aimed to raise awareness about the need for bat conservation, promote a change in perception towards this group, demonstrate the various niches of bats, share experiences with a Portuguese researcher involved in bat tourism in Lisbon, and explore the use of instruments. The methodology involved nighttime visits led by experts and monitors. The team preparation included readings and lectures. Mist nets were set up to capture bats for observation, and ultrasonic detectors were used to monitor vocalizations. Diverse species were revealed. These nighttime visits proved effective in conveying the importance of bats in line with SDG 15: Life on Land. This work has the potential to contribute to awareness of the need for bat conservation and to ongoing research.