Os morcegos da Mata Nacional do Bussaco, centro de Portugal

Abstract

Bats constitute a generally little known group of mammals, but with enormous ecological and economic importance. There are 25 bat species identified in mainland Portugal, representing almost 40% of the terrestrial mammals of the country. Some species are very abundant, but a considerable proportion of them, notably cave-dwelling species, exhibit reduced and vulnerable populations. Bussaco National Forest (wall fenced area of approximately 105 ha) constitutes an exclusive heritage in Portugal and in the World, due to its history, architecture and natural values. Biologically, it represents one of the best dendrological collections in Europe and shelters quite a diverse fauna, with the vertebrates being studied only recently. An inventory of bats has been conducted since 2007 by means of ultrasound identification. Ultrasound calls were recorded during bats’ activity periods and identified to the species based on acoustic characteristics, literature and comparison with a database. Up to the present time, 14 bat species have been identified in Bussaco. Probably there are more, though echolocation identification presents some constraints that make it difficult to reach species level. Considering the lack of information about this vertebrate group, any study, even a simple one, can contribute to knowledge of these species and the designing of protection and conservation measures.