Human-bat interactions in caves of South Central Mindanao, Philippines

Abstract

In the tropics, bats are essential component of many natural ecosystems, through providing various ecological services including pollination and insect pest control, in addition to seed dispersal. Many Philippine bat species roost in caves and underground habitats. However, many caves are disturbed by people exploiting resources for food, recreation, and mineral and guano extraction. Misunderstanding on the importance of bats to the ecosystem is also considered a threat to many cave roosting species. Understanding the conflicts between humans and ecosystems, which provide essential services, is important to maintain ecosystem service provision. A total of 100 local respondents from the village of Pisan, Kabacan North Cotabato in South central Mindanao were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire and focus group discussions. Respondents were asked about their views, levels of knowledge, use, interaction, and awareness towards both the caves and bats in their locality. The survey found that most of the respondents are aware of the presence of bats from the caves in their locality. Unfortunately, a large proportion of the respondents noted that bats are hunted in caves for bush meat and trade, and most people perceived bats as a pest to fruit crops such as durian. These are some factors of the extirpation of many bat colonies in caves of south central Mindanao. In general, cave bats are underappreciated species in caves. The unregulated tourism, hunting for bushmeat and trade, and guano extraction is among the threats occurring for both caves and bats in the locality and possibly in other cave sites in the country. Furthermore, the establishment of strong and effective model conservation education programs and the strengthening the participation of local government, academy, and community are essential steps to preserve the current state of cave bats in the area.