Conservation plan on table to save bat species in Kolar caves

Context

• The Karnataka Forest Department, along with the Bat Conservation India Trust, is on a war footing to save the remaining bats, which are endemic to the area, from extinction.

About the Kolar Leaf-Nosed Bat

• It is exclusive to Karnataka.
• They are very adaptable creatures and therefore can often be found near human habitation or even in urban settlements, which makes them vulnerable.
• They are also considered as the carriers of diseases.
• Bats are absolutely vital for the ecology as they are pollinators, their main diet being nectar.
• The plants that bloom at night are entirely dependent on bats and moths for pollination.
• Bats also help in insect control and therefore, help in the protection of crops.
  
  

What is the concern over it?

• There are five species of bats that live in the caves of Hanumanahalli, of which the Kolar Leaf-Nosed Bat is just one. And there are around just 150 Kolar Leaf-Nosed Bats left in these caves.
• Bats are one of the least studied mammals in the country, though there are 130 species in India.

What is about the plan?

• The Bat Conservation Society has been entrusted with drawing up a conservation plan.
• It will include identifying and conserve the bats foraging area.
• Awareness campaign will also be launched.
• Guarding the area from encroachers.