Abstract

SAMPEDRO-MARIN, ALCIDES C. et al. Occurrence of the house bat (Molossus molossus Pallas, 1776) in the city of Sincelejo, Department of Sucre, Colombia. Caldasia [online]. 2008, vol.30, n.2, pp.495-503. ISSN 0366-5232.

The occurrence of the house bat species, Molossus molossus in the urban area of Sincelejo was recorded between April 2004 and December 2005 with the aid of 12x2 m mist nets. Taking into account the numbers of individuals caught in each net and the total number of nets used, the relative abundance index was estimated to be 65.4 %. A total of 487 houses and other buildings were visited; their location and physical state (good, moderate or poor), as well as the presence or absence of the species of interest were noted. M. molossus was present in 42.3 % of the houses. Bat infestation was usually associated with the moderate to poor state of buildings, the eaves of which were often dilapidated, invaded by plagues such as cockroaches and rodents and filled with excrement and urine. Analysis of the stomach contents of M. molossus revealed that this bat consumes an average of 1.5 grams of insects per night, which represents a considerable amount of annual insect depredation by this abundant species. A survey conducted with the occupants of each building indicates that the majority of the population is unaware of the advantages and disadvantages of cohabitation with this bat. The stable warm weather conditions throughout the year and the abundance of food and refuge make it possible for M. molossus to reproduce all year round. This, together with the lack of predators in the region makes it a highly successful species. In light of the potential ecological benefits of house bat colonies, the implementation of pertinent measures to reduce its presence in human dwellings without damaging existing populations is recommended.

Keywords : Molossus molossus; house bat; nocturnal activity; diurnal refuges.

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