Bat Hunting in Nigeria By Dr Terungwa Ikye-Tor

Bat hunting in Nigeria is a practice that has both cultural and economic significance. Bats are hunted for food, traditional medicine, and other uses. The practice varies widely across different regions, communities, and tribes in Nigeria. Below is a brief outline of bats hunted, the methods used, their roles in Nigerian culture, and some of the ethical and environmental concerns related to bat hunting:

Types of Bats Hunted in Nigeria:

Nigeria is home to a diverse array of bat species, including both megabats (large fruit-eating bats) and microbats (smaller insectivorous bats). These species play vital roles in ecosystems but are also utilized by humans for various purposes.

Fruit Bats (Flying Foxes):

These are the largest and most commonly hunted species. They are known for feeding on fruits, nectar, flowers and sap. Species such as Straw-coloured Fruit Bat (Eidolon helvum) known for their large colonies form a notable part of the bat population in Nigeria. They are valued for their large size and their role in pollination and seed dispersal. Other species include Gambian Epauletted Fruit Bat (Epomophorus gambianus), Ethiopian Epauletted Fruit Bat (Epomophorus labiatus), Egyptian rousette fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus), Short-tailed round leaf nosed bat (Hipposideros curtus) Hammer-headed Bat (Hypsignathus monstrosus) and Yellow-winged Bat (Lavia frons).

Insectivorous Bats:

These bats feed on insects, particularly mosquitoes and other pests, and are important for pest control. Example is the White-bellied Yellow Bat commonly known as House bats (Scotophilus leucogaster) which is less commonly hunted.

Methods of Bat Hunting:

Netting:

Nets are often set up around fruiting trees where bats are likely to gather. These nets trap the bats when they swoop down to feed.

Torchlight Hunting:

In some localities, hunters use torches or flashlights to illuminate roosting sites, making it easier to catch bats, especially during the night when they are most active.

Trapping in Caves:

Bats often roost in caves or hollow trees. Some hunters enter caves at night, using tools such as clubs or their hands to capture bats.

Cultural and Economic Roles of Bat Hunting:

Food Source:

Bat meat is considered a delicacy in many parts of Nigeria, especially among certain ethnic groups. It is high in protein and is often roasted, grilled, or cooked in soups and stews.

Traditional Medicine:

Certain parts of bats (such as the wings, blood, or fur) are believed to have medicinal properties and are used in traditional healing practices.

Economic Benefits:

Bat hunting provides income to local communities, especially in rural areas where hunting is a primary livelihood activity. Bat meat is sold in local markets or to middlemen who distribute it to larger urban centers.

Cultural Beliefs:

Bats are sometimes associated with spiritual beliefs or are used in rituals and ceremonies by certain ethnic groups. In some regions, bats are considered symbols of fertility, good fortune, or protection.

Environmental and Ethical Concerns:

Impact on Bat Populations:

Overhunting and habitat destruction are major threats to bat populations in Nigeria. Certain species of bats are now becoming endangered due to unsustainable hunting practices.

Bats and Disease:

Bats are known to be reservoirs for diseases such as Ebola, rabies, and other zoonotic diseases. This has raised concerns about the risks involved in handling and consuming bat meat.

Conservation Efforts:

There are ongoing efforts by conservation organizations to educate local communities about the importance of bat populations for ecological balance, such as their role in pest control and pollination.

In some areas, initiatives aim to promote sustainable hunting practices, though these are not always widely accepted.

Notable Bat Hunting Areas in Nigeria:

Southern Nigeria (e.g., Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Delta, Enugu, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo states):

These regions are rich in biodiversity and have significant bat populations, particularly in the rainforests. Bat hunting is common in rural communities, mangrove swamps or dense forests.

Northern Nigeria: (e.g., Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Gombe, Adamawa states)

The northern region with its savannah vegetation has communities that engage in bat hunting, particularly for cultural and traditional reasons.

Legal and Regulatory Framework:

Wildlife Protection Laws:

While there are wildlife protection laws in Nigeria, enforcement is often weak, and bat hunting is largely unregulated and laws are often ignored or unenforced in rural areas.

Conclusion:

Bat hunting in Nigeria is an established practice deeply rooted in cultural traditions and economic needs. However, with the increasing threat of overhunting and habitat loss, as well as the risks associated with zoonotic diseases, it is crucial to promote more sustainable practices and raise awareness about the role bats play in maintaining ecological balance. There is a growing need for the enforcement of wildlife protection laws and better conservation efforts to ensure the survival of bat species in the country.

Terungwa Ikye-Tor