Protecting Bat Populations Through Agave Restoration

What's the first thing you think of when you hear “bat”? Some people might be scared of these flying mammals. But bats do so much for our ecosystems and our economies – and they need our help to overcome declining populations. In this episode of Come Rain or Shine, we interviewed Dr. Kristen Lear, director of the Agave Restoration Initiative with Bat Conservation International (BCI). BCI works to conduct bat research, protect and restore their habitat, and educate the public on why bats are so important. Kristen talks to us about the biggest threats bats are experiencing, how BCI is restoring agave landscapes across binational migratory corridors, and what people can do in their own communities to help care for these animals – like building bat houses and bat-friendly gardens! She also highlights how bats play a role in ecosystems, economies, and culture; bats feed on agave nectar as they travel, which pollinates these plants that produce tequila, mezcal, and more. Kristen says she’s always rooted for the “underdog” animals, and she might just get you to root for bats too. So grab a blanket and a cozy drink, and listen to this perfect October episode on bats. Learn more about Bat Conservation International, the Agave Restoration Initiative Forest Stewards Guild, and gardening for bats. --- If you’re enjoying this podcast, please consider rating us and/or leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts, Podcast Addict, or Podchaser. Thanks! Follow us on Twitter @RainShinePod Never miss an episode! Sign up to get an email alert whenever a new episode publishes (http://eepurl.com/hRuJ5H) Have a suggestion for a future episode? Please tell us! USGS Southwest CASC: https://www.swcasc.arizona.edu/gov/hubs/southwest