As night falls and the light of the stars becomes our only companion, a very different world awakens. In the darkness, Livingstone’s fruit bats take flight, crossing the skies in search of food.

Since 2018, in collaboration with the University of the Comoros and Bat Conservation International, we conduct individual monitoring of the fruit bats using GPS tags to understand how this species, endemic to the Comoros, utilizes the landscape.

Our technician, Badrane Ben Ali Abdou, provides us with information on the progress of the work.

Steps for identifying key trees

24 bats equipped with this tracking technology gradually reveal the trees they frequent for feeding and their roosting sites thanks to location points derived from GPS tags.

"After collecting GPS data from the fruit bats we tagged, we use GIS to identify frequently visited locations. We then organize site visits to these identified areas to determine which specific trees the bats are using," says Badrane.

 "Once on-site, we use the data extracted from the tags to identify the tree near the indicated GPS point."

75% of the food-source trees are native species

"Next, we identify the tree species by observing its fruit, the condition of its flowers—whether fresh or dried—and the presence of flower buds. We can determine the names of most trees by cross-referencing them with our database to confirm the specific type. At this stage, we also look for signs of bat-inflicted bite marks to ascertain whether bats are feeding on parts of the tree."

Since August, we have studied 270 trees from 26 different species, representing 16 families. 75% of all the trees examined are native species.

This information will guide Dahari’s reforestation programs by prioritizing the planting of species that are important to the fruit bat. Key areas and trees within the landscape will also be incorporated into the program. conservation agreements.

Unveiling dormitory sites

This work also enables the identification of bat roosting sites.

"By observing the ongoing presence of bats at rest, we can also determine whether the location serves as a roosting site. Before reaching a conclusion, the team must conduct 24-hour monitoring at the site and count the number of individuals frequenting the surrounding trees."

The tree-monitoring program opens a window for continuing to conserve Livingstone’s fruit bats and their vital role in the forest.

To know more on the use of GPS tags on bats.