The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI) has joined forces with Bat Conservation International (BCI) and several other organizations in a vital effort to safeguard the endangered Mexican long-nosed bat. This collaborative project involves planting Havard Agaves within the secured confines of CDRI’s Botanical Gardens, aiming to bolster the foraging habitat crucial for the survival of this species.
Collaborative Conservation Effort: Approximately 140 Agave havardiana plants, integral to the diet of the Mexican long-nosed bats, were recently planted at CDRI. This initiative is a group effort involving BCI, the El Paso Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sul Ross State University, and hundreds of dedicated volunteers. The project not only enhances the local ecosystem but also provides a real-world application of conservation principles taught in academic settings.
Strategic Response to Climate Change: The Davis Mountains, rising to an elevation of 5,100 feet near Fort Davis, Texas, are predicted to become an increasingly important habitat for these bats amid changing climatic conditions. The Mexican long-nosed bat, already impacted by habitat loss and climate change, was listed in the Endangered Species Coalition’s 2021 report as one of the “Last Chance: 10 U.S. Species Already Imperiled by Climate Change.”
Creating a Nectar Corridor: In response to the urgent needs of these bats, BCI and the El Paso Zoo are working to establish a climate-resilient nectar corridor that will support the bats not only in Texas but along their migratory route. This corridor is crucial as it aids in the survival and health of the bat populations as they navigate through their migratory paths.
Agave Restoration Initiative: The Agave Restoration Initiative, spearheaded by BCI, involves local partners like Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, The Nature Conservancy, Sul Ross State University, and private landowners. Together, they have collected thousands of native Agave havardiana seeds and propagated 1,000 plants. These efforts are a part of a broader strategy to plant over 107,500 agaves across multiple states and Mexican states, providing essential resources to support the bats throughout their range.
Community Involvement and Education: The success of such conservation efforts heavily relies on community involvement and education. Rick LoBello, Education and Conservation Curator, highlights the importance of local and regional support in these initiatives. The CDRI and its partners encourage public participation through educational programs and volunteer opportunities, helping individuals understand and contribute to the conservation of this crucial species.
Photo courtesy Lisa Gordon, Executive Director, Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute, Fort Davis.
