By ibrahima pima yakubu
Every year, thousands of migratory bats, along with their young, are brutally killed in a garden known for attracting these creatures due to its favorable climate and towering trees. This garden, located at the Kaduna State House of Assembly, has become a vital spot for bats to give birth, but the increasing attacks from local hunters are putting these species at risk.
The bats travel long distances to the garden with the sole purpose of giving birth to their young. When they return to their original habitats, they usually fly back in large numbers. However, as these bats make their way through the area, local hunters armed with catapults and stones relentlessly target them.
Many of these hunters believe the bats are a delicacy and seek them out for food, while others cite the high cost of other meats as the reason for hunting them.
A study by science journalists who observed the area twice daily for two months revealed that, on average, 50 to 60 bats were killed each day. These hunters would carry bags to collect the dead bats after shooting them, further contributing to the devastation of the bat population.
Local horticulturists who sell trees in the area have reported that between five and six hunters visit the garden daily, aiming to shoot the bats. Some hunters roast the bats and take them to unknown locations to sell, further fueling the demand for this unsustainable practice.
If this slaughter continues, these migratory bats could soon face extinction. The garden has long been a sanctuary for these bats, and stopping the killings requires collective responsibility.
It is crucial that local and international conservationists, along with wildlife protection organizations, raise awareness and push for action from both the state and federal governments to put an end to this annual massacre.
These bats are not only being killed by hunters but also sold to bushmeat vendors and wildlife traffickers, which only exacerbates the problem. It’s clear that we need unified efforts from all sectors of society to address this issue and protect these important species.
Unfortunately, very few people seem to be concerned about the fate of these bats and other migratory birds in the area. Zoologists and environmentalists agree that collaboration is key to stopping the killing and trading of these bats. Strong policies must be enacted to end this practice, and both civil society organizations and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry must take an active role in the effort to protect wildlife.
The United Nations has reported that around one million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction due to climate change, pollution, desertification, deforestation, and other environmental factors. This situation is becoming increasingly dire for both terrestrial and marine life.
It is vital that continuous campaigns, both online and offline, be conducted to educate the public about the importance of protecting plants, animals, and other species in our ecosystems. Governments at all levels must revitalize the work of forest guards and implement policies to stop bushmeat trafficking and other activities that harm forests.
In Nigeria, many bird species, including vultures, are on the brink of extinction due to hunting for meat. We must unite to end these harmful practices and preserve the biodiversity of our region.
As science reporters, our role is to educate the public through various media channels—TV, radio, and social media—by informing them about the need to protect these species.
The state government must take a strong stance against the destruction of wildlife and implement measures to stop the hunters who are killing these animals. The rising cost of living is also contributing to the increased hunting of wildlife, as many animals are forced to migrate to safer environments.
Though science journalists face challenges in investigating and reporting these issues, the ultimate goal remains: to protect nature, safeguard ecosystems, and prevent the extinction of plant, animal, and other living organisms in our region.
