People don't like bats because they think of them as frightening bloodsuckers who will transmit sickness. However, according to scientists, diseases are only very infrequently conveyed by them, and very few animals consume blood instead of fruit.

The number of bats has been declining, which is a concern because they are more important to the ecology than most people realise. The purpose of International Bat Appreciation Day is to exhibit support for these soaring mammals and to inform people of the significance of bats in contemporary society.

History of international bat appreciation day:

International Bat Appreciation Day was established by Bat Conservation International to draw attention to the need to safeguard all bat species. Ecosystems are safeguarded by bats, who also contribute to the future health of our world.

In response to concerns about the planet's bat population, a group of scientists established Bat Conservation International in 1982. After conducting extensive research, they learned that bats are crucial to many different sectors and to maintaining the balance of nature.
 

 The organisation was founded by scientists including Dr. Merlin Tuttle, a recognised expert on bats. By advocating for more environmentally friendly, resource-efficient practises that benefit both people and bats, he made significant progress.

The global environment benefits greatly from the contribution of bats. Over 1,300 different species of bats can be found worldwide. Bats pollinate flowers and fruit, eliminate agricultural pests, and produce rich fertiliser that benefits local farmers, landowners, and communities.

Without these bats, plants wouldn't be able to feed nearby ecosystems and other wildlife species. Even though many of those bats are regarded as severely endangered, imperilled, or vulnerable, they are one of the least studied mammals.

Bat populations worldwide have significantly declined due to forest loss, improper guano mining, and careless tourism. The purpose of International Bat Appreciation Day is to promote bat conservation and encourage people to view these misunderstood animals in a new light.

Some information about bats:

They are insect-eating machines that can consume thousands of mosquitoes and other flying insects in a single night!
Bats find and capture insects using echolocation, which involves quick sound pulses that rebound off an item.
Bats are more closely related to primates than mice.
They are the only mammals that have the ability to fly.

How to celebrate:

1. Go to a conservation event for bats
Participate in a bat conservation event or lend a hand at your neighbourhood Bat Conservation Trust. You can contribute to the campaign to safeguard bats and their natural habitats while also learning more about these amazing animals.

2.Go Bat Observing
Take a quiet evening to enjoy watching bats fly around at dusk as they search for food in a location close to your home where they are known to reside.
 

3. Establish a bat sanctuary
Create a bat box and give bats a secure home to live. This is a simple project you can complete with your children in which everyone will gain new knowledge about bats and the need to maintain their environment.

4. Study up on bats.
Spend some time learning about the history of bats. These creatures have a lot of fascinating information that can increase your admiration for them.
 

5. Raise Awareness
To raise awareness in your neighbourhood, post information about bats on social media or make posters. Utilise the hashtag #BatAppreciationDay to express your support.