Creation Covenant Alliance

Study Reveals Endangered Bat Species Frequently Sold as Decorative Items Online

The US plays a crucial role in the trade of taxidermied bats, impacting species like the painted woolly bat.
Photo by Bill Boch/Getty Images

The US Plays a Key Role in Global Ornamental Bat Trade

Photo by Bill Boch/Getty Images

Photo by Bill Boch/Getty Images

Browsing platforms like Etsy or eBay for decorative bats usually reveals black PVC or cardboard items. However, researchers have unveiled hundreds of online listings for taxidermied bats during a three-month investigation. The study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Bat Trade Working Group found 856 bat listings from Etsy, Amazon, and eBay. Nearly two-thirds were from US vendors across 30 states. A significant portion featured the painted woolly bat (Kerivoula picta), a near-threatened species from Asia.

“I find the [ornamental bat] trade extremely frivolous,” said Joanna Coleman, a coauthor of the study and assistant professor at Queens College, City University of New York.

Most mummified bats were in excellent condition, sold unmounted, or displayed in frames or on accessories like necklaces. The painted woolly bat, an insectivorous species with a decade-long lifespan, is vulnerable due to low reproduction rates. This bat trade affects not just the species but also humans and ecosystems, as these bats are crucial for pest control.

Coleman suggests hunters, often impoverished workers, may be capturing every bat they encounter. She notes buyers are often unaware they are contributing to the wild bat trade, with some listings falsely claiming bats were captive-bred or naturally deceased, which is improbable due to rapid decomposition in the tropics.

Misleading claims on listings suggest supporting species conservation or local communities, misleading buyers into harming these bats. Data scientist Nistara Randhawa, a coauthor, pointed out that these assertions are often false.

Though it’s unclear if bats carry health risks, like all wild animals, they might transmit dangerous pathogens. “Humans shouldn’t touch them,” Coleman warns, emphasizing the loss of ecological services like pest control.

Legal protection for painted woolly bats is weak, with poor enforcement where laws exist. “We’re seriously concerned about their dwindling numbers,” Coleman stated. Randhawa’s research on buyer comments showed a disconnect, with many unaware they are part of an illegal trade.

In May 2024, the Center for Biological Diversity and Monitor Conservation Research Society filed a petition to list the species as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. A decision is expected by year-end. If approved, this would halt the legal trade of this species in the US.

Following media coverage and conservation pressures, Etsy revised its policy to ban all bats. eBay has also removed most bat listings. Despite these changes, bats continue to be sold on platforms like Amazon and Alibaba.

The study’s authors aim to have the painted woolly bat added to CITES Appendix 1 by December 2025, prohibiting international trade except for scientific purposes. Bat conservationist Dave Waldien encourages avoiding real bat decorations, suggesting donations to educational institutions instead.

Coleman emphasizes urgency: “Our goal is to shut down the ornamental bat trade worldwide.”

More stories about endangered species

Original Story at www.sierraclub.org

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



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