Emily Stanford
Oberlin College
Project
How Cultural Perceptions Impact Bat Conservation
Australia, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Madagascar, Malawi, Panama
Bats are unique creatures that contribute to pollination and pest control, making them crucial to economies and ecosystems. However, bats often have a negative reputation, and are sometimes considered to be symbols of evil. As populations of bats around the globe decline due to a wide range of human-caused threats, the future of bat conservation depends on finding ways to peacefully exist with bats. During my Watson year, I will actively explore how people’s perceptions of these fascinating creatures impact their conservation. I will volunteer with and live amongst groups that both care for and kill bats in hopes of understanding the roots of the conflict.