Population status and conservation of bats (Chiroptera) in Kenting National Park, Taiwan

Abstract

This paper presents the results of field work conducted between 1994 and 1996 to establish the occurrence, and population, breeding and conservation status of bats in and around Kenting National Park, southern Taiwan. Of the 20 bat species that occur in Taiwan, Kenting National Park and its vicinity harbour eight species; three are endemic to Taiwan and two are endemic subspecies. Six of the eight species roost in natural caves and man-made tunnels. Two species of forest bats were captured during mist-netting. The most predominant species were the horseshoe bat Rhinolophus monoceros and the common bent-winged bat Miniopterus schreibersii. The major threat for the cave-dwelling bats around Kenting is the closure of cave entrances by farmers. Recommendations are given for conserving the bats and their habitats in Taiwan.