The rediscovery of the short-tailed roundleaf bat, Hipposideros curtus, by Nigerian biologist Iroro Tanshi is a remarkable tale of scientific exploration and conservation. This tiny bat, weighing about as much as a teaspoon of salt, had been believed extinct for decades due to deforestation and hunting. Tanshi's discovery in the Afi mountain wildlife sanctuary in 2016 not only brought attention to the species' plight but also highlighted the complex cultural perceptions surrounding bats in Nigeria. With a weight equivalent to a teaspoon of salt, the short-tailed roundleaf bat possesses a unique appearance, featuring small eyes and a large, intricately folded nose, which aids in its echolocation abilities in complete darkness. Its sensitivity to noise and bright lights makes red light essential during field research.
Tanshi's breakthrough moment occurred during her PhD research, where she initially caught a bat that seemed different from the usual species. Upon consulting her identification guide, she realized it was Hipposideros curtus, last recorded in the wild in the 1970s. This discovery sparked a dedicated survey, leading to the finding of 15 more individuals of the same species. The colony Tanshi rediscovered is the sole confirmed population of this endangered bat actively roosting.
However, the article delves into the cultural challenges faced by bats in Nigeria. Despite the sanctuary's protected status, bats are still heavily hunted, often associated with negative stereotypes and beliefs. In some communities, bats are considered normal bushmeat, sold in groups of four for 5,000 naira. Tanshi and her colleague, Benneth Obitte, founded the Small Mammal Conservation Organization (Smacon) to address these issues. They initiated the Zero Wildfire Campaign, implementing color-coded alert systems to guide farmers on safe bush burning and forming Forest Guardians to combat wildfires.
Tanshi's efforts have been widely recognized. She received the Goldman Environmental Award and was named a National Geographic explorer. Her work showcases the importance of scientific exploration and the need to address cultural perceptions to ensure the conservation of endangered species. The rediscovery of Hipposideros curtus serves as a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and the ongoing battle against the age of extinction.
