Bats of Uaxactún, Maya Biosphere Reserve, Petén, Guatemala
In July 2024, the community of Uaxactún in Petén, Guatemala, was visited as part of a biodiversity documentation initiative. An educational talk on bats was delivered, followed by a rapid assessment of local species. A total of 20 bat species were identified, representing six of the seven families recorded in the country. Notably, Mimon cozumelae was recorded—an indicator species of well-preserved forests. Most of the bats observed play a key role in forest regeneration through seed dispersal. The results highlight a high species richness in the area, underscoring the importance of continuing research and monitoring efforts.
Description
In July 2024, a visit was conducted to the village of Uaxactún, located within the Maya Biosphere Reserve (RBM) in Petén, Guatemala. Educational talks were delivered to secondary school students, and a rapid species assessment was carried out using mist nets and high-frequency recordings. A total of 20 bat species were identified, belonging to six of the seven families recorded in Guatemala. These included frugivorous, insectivorous, one nectarivorous, and one hematophagous species. Ten of the identified species are protected under national legislation. Most of the captured bats play a key role in forest regeneration through seed dispersal. Of particular note was Mimon cozumelae, considered an indicator species of well-preserved forests. The results reveal a high level of species richness in the area, highlighting the importance of continuing research and monitoring. This work was made possible through the collaboration of FLAAR Mesoamerica, ACOFOP, BQB Biósfera, ASOGUAMA, and PCMG.
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