LAHORE:
The historic Bagh-e-Jinnah remains one of the largest bat roosting sites in Lahore.
Hundreds of bats can still be seen hanging from old trees during the day before setting off in search of food at dusk. However, experts say their numbers have been steadily declining over the years.
Urbanization, shrinking green spaces, artificial lighting and widespread misconceptions among the public are contributing to a gradual decline in bat populations in Lahore, wildlife experts and biologists have warned, highlighting the need for conservation measures to protect the species and maintain urban biodiversity.
According to wildlife expert Shahzaib Khurshid, rapid urban expansion is the main reason behind the decline in bat population.
He said road construction, housing projects and commercial projects have led to the loss of mature trees and natural habitats that bats depend on for shelter.
“Bats prefer old, dense trees in relatively quiet environments. As cities continue to expand, suitable habitats for these animals are becoming scarcer,” he said.
Experts believe misconceptions about bats also contribute to their decline. While some citizens see bats as an important part of nature, others associate them with superstition and fear.
At Bagh-e-Jinnah, several visitors shared different views on bats.
A local resident said that every living thing has a purpose in nature. “People should try to understand their role in the environment instead of fearing them,” he said.
Joham expressed a similar opinion, saying that nothing in nature is created without a purpose. He said bats play a role in maintaining ecological balance and deserve protection.
Muhammad Munir said that many beliefs surrounding bats are based on myths rather than facts. He highlighted the importance of wildlife awareness and scientific education.
On the other hand, some residents acknowledged having negative perceptions about bats.
Rehana Ahmed said she had grown up hearing that bats are a bad omen and therefore always felt uncomfortable around them. Bushra Khalid said many people believe bats suck blood, which makes them fear the species.
Imtiaz Hussain said the unusual appearance of bats and their sudden flight patterns often create fear and disgust.
Wildlife experts, however, say such perceptions have little scientific basis. They point out that most of the bat species found in Pakistan are harmless to humans and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance.
Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Muhammad Azhar said bats are an essential component of healthy ecosystems. He explained that insect-eating bats help control mosquito and pest populations naturally, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
“The presence of bats is often an indicator of a healthy environment. Public awareness is necessary to dispel myths and encourage coexistence with wildlife,” he said.
Experts say bats provide valuable ecological services by consuming large numbers of insects, including mosquitoes, moths and agricultural pests. Some species also contribute to pollination and seed dispersal, supporting plant diversity and forest regeneration.
Dr Zulfiqar Ali, head of the Department of Zoology at Punjab University, said several species of birds, insects and other forms of urban wildlife have significantly declined or disappeared from parts of the city in recent decades.
