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The Bat Specialist Group of the IUCN Species Survival Commission (BSG) is one of a number of specialist groups formed within the Species Survival Commission (SSC) of IUCN-The World Conservation Union (IUCN). We are a collaborative multidisciplinary network of bat biologists and conservationists providing support and promoting bat conservation activities throughout the world.
Bats make up one fifth of all terrestrial mammals (1,293 species, N. Simmons 2013). They are among the most endangered of the world's creatures, primarily because much of their habitat has been eliminated by human development or because they are persecuted. Because bats are important seed dispersers and pollinators for many native plants, and key insect predators globally, their loss has serious consequences for the ecosystems to which they belong.
Bats make up one fifth of all terrestrial mammals (1,293 species, N. Simmons 2013). They are among the most endangered of the world's creatures, primarily because much of their habitat has been eliminated by human development or because they are persecuted. Because bats are important seed dispersers and pollinators for many native plants, and key insect predators globally, their loss has serious consequences for the ecosystems to which they belong.
Latest News
A Portfolio of 3 Sets of Covid-19 Guidelines have now been released by the IUCN SSC Bat Specialist Group.
On 13 April 2020 the IUCN Species Survival Commission Bat Specialist Group recommended the suspension of all field work that involves interactions with bats while it considered the risk of human-bat transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Subsequently, the Bat Specialist Group convened a global panel of experts with expertise ranging from bat ecologists to virologists who have assessed the scientific evidence for human-to-bat transmission and efficacy of risk mitigation strategies. It is the opinion of the panel that there is a credible risk of human-to-bat transmission of SARSCoV-
2, but this risk can be reduced using appropriate mitigation strategies.
IUCN SSC Bat Specialist Group (BSG) recommendations to reduce the risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to bats by cavers MAP: Minimize, Assess, Protect
Living Document Version 1.0 Released 22nd August 2020
These recommendations have been conceived specifically to modify caving practices to protect bats from accidental SARS-CoV-2 exposure and transmission from cavers. However, under all circumstances cave users should avoid disturbing bats and follow existing best practice. The panel recognises that our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 is changing rapidly and advises the speleological community that this is a living document with updates anticipated.
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Posted: 23 Aug 2020
IUCN SSC Bat Specialist Group (BSG) recommendations to reduce the risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to bats in bat rescue and rehabilitation centers MAP: Minimize, Assess, Protect. Living Document Version 1.0 Released 12th July 2020
The following recommendations have been developed to encourage and assist bat experts and enthusiasts involved in bat rescue and rehabilitation around the world to prepare and implement these mitigation strategies. Special guidelines concerning SARS-CoV-2 should be included in the general framework of health and safety at facilities involved in bat rescue and rehabilitation, and take into account all regional risks, capabilities and regulations.
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Posted:13 July 2020 REVISED VERSION ADDED 15/07/20
IUCN SSC Bat Specialist Group (BSG) Recommended Strategy for Researchers to Reduce the Risk of Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from Humans to Bats MAP: Minimize, Assess, Protect. Living Document Version 1.0 Released 19th June 2020
This guidance document has been developed primarily for researchers. The panel recognises that at this time its recommendations may not be suitable for all stakeholders that come into close proximity or contact with bats. The panel continues to work with those groups to assess their needs and produce stakeholder-specific recommendations.
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Posted:19 June 2020 REVISED VERSION ADDED 15/07/20
ACCOMPANYING VISUALS
Downloadable COVID-19 Cavers Infographics.
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Posted 23/08/20
Downloadable COVID-19 MAP Decision Tree for Researchers
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Posted 15/07/20
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