Bat Species Diversity in High Range Mountain Landscape of the Southern Western Ghats

Conservation of the ecologically important landscape of Munnar in the Western Ghats, Kerala, India, is critical for the long-term survival of bat populations. This study, conducted using mist netting and acoustic surveys, addresses the various bat species that inhabit this region. Of the 33 species identified, Microchiroptera formed the majority (81.8%), while Megachiroptera accounted for 18.2%. In particular, the Salim Ali bat, an endemic and endangered species, was observed alongside other species classified as endangered or for which there is insufficient data. This survey underscores the ecological importance of Munnar for bat conservation and highlights the presence of endangered species in particular. The results provide important baseline data critical to directing future research and conservation efforts.