Networking networks for global bat conservation

Abstract

Conservation networks link diverse actors, either individuals or groups, across space and time. Such networks build social capital, enhance coordination, and lead to effective conservation action. Bat conservation can benefit from network approaches because the taxonomic and ecological diversity of bats, coupled with the complexity of the threats they face, necessitates a wide range of expert knowledge to effect conservation. Moreover, many species and issues transcend political boundaries, so conservation frequently requires or benefits from international cooperation. In response, several regional bat conservation networks have arisen in recent years, and we suggest that, with the globalization of threats to bats, there is now a need for a global network to strengthen bat conservation and provide a unified voice for advocacy. To retain regional autonomy and identity, we advocate a global network of the regional networks and develop a roadmap toward such a meta-network using a social network framework. We first review the structure and function of existing networks and then suggest ways in which existing networks might be strengthened. We then discuss how regional gaps in global coverage might best be filled, before suggesting ways in which regional networks might be linked for global coverage.