Description: The GCOI, supported by TAAF, undertook an acoustic bat inventory on Grande Glorieuse, Tromelin, and Europa islands within the Scattered Islands. The initiative aimed to identify bat species, understand their habitat utilisation and propose appropriate management strategies. Trained personnel deployed passive recorders sequentially on the islands, detecting the presence of two bat species using six acoustic detectors. Additionally, ten staff members received training, and active capture methods were employed to collect biological samples for genetic analysis, contributing to understanding the phylogeny of the species. This effort led to the formulation of management recommendations specifically for Chiroptera in the new Nature Reserve of the Glorieuse archipelago. Furthermore, a public awareness campaign was conducted to disseminate the study’s findings and promote understanding and appreciation of bats. This comprehensive project addressed the lack of knowledge concerning bat populations in the Scattered Islands while providing crucial insights for biodiversity conservation.
Duration: 20 months
