Bats are under unprecedented threat from widespread habitat destruction, invasive species, accelerating climate change, and other stresses. Without concerted international action, bat populations could continue to fall, driving species to extinction.
Working together, we have the power to end bat extinctions worldwide. With the help of partner organizations, we are working to conserve bat species at a global scale and ensure the survival of the most imperiled species.
Embracing the adaptive management approach of the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation (OS), we have outlined what we consider to be some of the highest-impact conservation efforts happening anywhere in the world, prioritized based on rigorous science and shared data. Utilizing the systematic OS framework for planning, implementing, and monitoring, we believe that our projects will result in significant improvements in the preservation of these extraordinary mammals.
Below you can learn more about our portfolio of four comprehensive missions.
Endangered Species Interventions
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified more than 200 bat species around the world as threatened (Critically Endangered, Endangered, or Vulnerable).
To try to stabilize these populations and prevent extinction, we’ve outlined four operations to safeguard several highly endangered bat species.
Dan Taylor
Habitat Protection & Restoration
Loss of roosting and foraging habitats is one of the biggest threats to bat populations worldwide. Developing partnerships and collaborations to integrate regional, national, and international efforts are crucial to our conservation mission.
Our habitat protection and restoration work focuses on restoring habitat in critical areas, protecting economically valuable colonies of bats, and abating threats at known roost sites.
Heatherlee Leary
Research and Scalable Solutions
Developing scalable solutions to the severe and emerging threats to bats requires innovative research and global capacity building. Our efforts focus on improving our knowledge of bat populations, which helps inform conservation actions and investments in tools and partnerships.
We conduct high-priority research to accelerate finding solutions to protect bats from the impacts of White-nose Syndrome (WNS) and to reduce bat fatalities at wind energy facilities. We build global capacity by investing in the next generation of bat conservation leaders by supporting outstanding student scholars in bat conservation and research around the world.
Jonathan Alonzo
Inspire Through Experience
Many of our members and supporters develop lifelong connections to bats, bat conservation, and our organization as a result of their personal experiences in nature — specifically time spent observing and appreciating bats.
These personal stories are why we remain committed to creating impactful nature experiences to deepen connection further and inspire the next generation of bat supporters.
Bat Conservation International’s work includes protecting Bracken Cave Preserve, the largest bat colony in the world with 20 million Mexican Free-tailed Bats.
Evidence Champion
BCI is recognized as an Evidence Champion by Conservation Evidence because of our commitment to use evidence in our conservation plans and our work to test the efficacy of interventions on protecting bat populations.
Giving
Your Donations = More Bats Protected
When you stand with us, you are joining a global movement committed to fighting bat extinction. Together, we can protect bats, protect their habitats, fund research and more.
Our Work for Bat Conservation
Bats are under unprecedented threat from widespread habitat destruction, invasive species, accelerating climate change, and other stresses. Without concerted international action, bat populations could continue to fall, driving species to extinction.
Working together, we have the power to end bat extinctions worldwide. With the help of partner organizations, we are working to conserve bat species at a global scale and ensure the survival of the most imperiled species.
Embracing the adaptive management approach of the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation (OS), we have outlined what we consider to be some of the highest-impact conservation efforts happening anywhere in the world, prioritized based on rigorous science and shared data. Utilizing the systematic OS framework for planning, implementing, and monitoring, we believe that our projects will result in significant improvements in the preservation of these extraordinary mammals.
Below, you can learn more about our portfolio of four comprehensive missions.
Read More
Endangered Species Interventions
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified more than 200 bat species around the world as threatened (Critically Endangered, Endangered, or Vulnerable).
To try to stabilize these populations and prevent extinction, we’ve outlined four operations to safeguard several highly endangered bat species.
Habitat Protection & Restoration
Loss of roosting and foraging habitats is one of the biggest threats to bat populations worldwide. Developing partnerships and collaborations to integrate regional, national, and international efforts are crucial to our conservation mission.
Our habitat protection and restoration work focuses on restoring habitat in critical areas, protecting economically valuable colonies of bats, and abating threats at known roost sites.
Research and Scalable Solutions
Developing scalable solutions to the severe and emerging threats to bats requires innovative research and global capacity building. Our efforts focus on improving our knowledge of bat populations, which helps inform conservation actions and investments in tools and partnerships.
We conduct high-priority research to accelerate the finding of solutions to protect bats from the impacts of White-nose Syndrome (WNS) and to reduce bat fatalities at wind energy facilities. We build global capacity by investing in the next generation of bat conservation leaders by supporting outstanding student scholars in bat conservation and research around the world.
Inspire Through Experience
Many of our members and supporters develop lifelong connections to bats, bat conservation, and our organization as a result of their personal experiences in nature — specifically, time spent observing and appreciating bats.
These personal stories are why we remain committed to creating impactful nature experiences to deepen connection further and inspire the next generation of bat supporters.
Staff Publications
- Peer-reviewed Scientific Publications
- State of the Bats Report
- State of the Bats Report (Spanish)
- State of the Bats Report (French)
Meet the Team Behind the Bats
Founded in 1982, Bat Conservation International has grown into a nonprofit recognized worldwide for protecting bats. Our teams of scientists, conservationists, and volunteers focus on research, habitat conservation, and community connection. We combine data-driven strategies with practical action to protect bats and the ecosystems they support.
We care about results. Every bat conservation project we lead, whether it’s a community habitat restoration or scientific research, is designed to make a measurable difference. Our nonprofit brings together people, resources, and expertise to fight threats like habitat destruction, wind energy impacts, and disease. Families and neighborhoods benefit when these efforts create healthier, safer environments for bats and humans alike.
What Drives Us Every Day
Our work is guided by values that keep us focused on results and connected to the people and places we serve. We bring passion to every project, inspiring communities to take part in protecting bats and the habitats they rely on. Our teams experiment with new approaches, using smart tools, technology, and research to see what works best and apply it in real-world conservation projects.
Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. We work closely with local partners, communities, and experts to make sure our bat protection initiatives have a lasting impact. We welcome people of all backgrounds to join in, respecting the cultural, historical, and environmental context of every location we touch.
Why Bats Matter to Us All
Bats play a critical role in ecosystems. They pollinate flowers, spread seeds, and keep insect populations under control. Without bats, gardens, farms, and forests would face major disruptions. Conservation initiatives for bats preserve not just the species themselves, but the plants, wildlife, and communities that rely on them.
Threats like habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate challenges put hundreds of bat species at risk. Bat protection initiatives protect critical habitats, monitor populations, and guide research that helps communities coexist with wildlife. This work supports biodiversity, strengthens ecosystems, and connects people with the natural world in a meaningful way.
Give Bats a Helping Hand
Bats face serious threats across the globe, and Bat Conservation International depends on support to carry out its work. Donations help fund bat conservation programs, protection initiatives, and research projects that safeguard critical habitats and support endangered species.
Your contribution goes directly toward preserving bat populations and the ecosystems they sustain. Support Bat Conservation International today and help protect these important animals while maintaining the balance of nature for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are bat conservation programs, and how do they work?
Bat conservation programs are organized efforts that protect bat populations through research, habitat restoration, and education. Programs can include monitoring bat populations, providing safe roosting areas, and raising public awareness.
How can I get involved in bat conservation projects?
Aside from becoming a BCI member, you can support bats in your local region through bat gardens and habitat protection. Support initiatives in your community that prioritize native plants, reduce pesticide use, and support waterways.
What are the main threats that conservation initiatives for bats address?
Initiatives tackle habitat loss, climate change, disease, and human interference. Healthy bat populations help control insects and maintain balanced ecosystems.
Can donating to a nonprofit make a real difference in bat conservation?
Yes. Donations fund fieldwork, educational programs, and conservation initiatives for bats. Contributions can support land purchases, cave purchases, habitat protection, population studies, and practical interventions that give endangered species a better chance at survival.
Working with partners across the globe we are able to identify and lead critically important conservation projects with clear, achievable actions that prevent the extinction of the world’s most threatened bats.
Director, Endangered Species Interventions