20 June 2024 Punjab Khabarnama : The ongoing heatwave in North India has led to a disturbing sight: bats dropping dead in large numbers in cities like Delhi and Kanpur. This phenomenon has raised concerns not only about the well-being of the bats but also about the potential risks to human health and the environment.
Heatwave takes a toll on Bats
In Kanpur’s Nana Rao Park, where hundreds of bats reside, locals have been witnessing bats falling from trees The intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius, has become lethal for these creatures.
Bats play a fairly important role in our ecosystem. They help control insect populations, which is beneficial for farmers as it reduces the need for pest control chemicals. Certain tropical plants also rely on bats for pollination and seed dispersal. The loss of bats could lead to an imbalance in the ecosystem, potentially increasing the prevalence of insects and affecting plant reproduction.
Health risks and environmental concerns
The sudden death of bats poses several health and environmental concerns. Decomposing bat carcasses can contaminate water sources, leading to diseases. Particularly the bats dying near water bodies can lead to contamination, affecting both drinking and recreational water sources, and can spread zoonotic diseases. The increase in mosquito populations due to the decline in bat numbers could raise the risk of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.
Safe disposal of Bat carcasses
Handling dead bats requires caution to avoid potential health risks. It is recommended to use thick gloves and long tools to handle the carcasses. If a bat is confirmed dead, it should be buried deeply to prevent pets and other animals from digging it up. Bat droppings, which can cause histoplasmosis—a rare lung infection—should be managed carefully. Wearing masks while in areas with dead bats is advisable to minimize exposure to airborne pathogens.
