Earth Today | Jamaica’s bats get their moment in the light

THE NATURAL History Museum of Jamaica (NHMJ) is peeling back the curtain on the secret lives of bats, with an exhibition intended to calm the fear many people have for the species in order to uncover their ecological value.

The exhibition, done in partnership with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) and Bat Conservation International (BCI), is titled ‘Guardians of the night: Celebrating Jamaica’s Remarkable Bats’; and officially opened to the public today (Thursday, June 19).

“This exhibition is more than a showcase, it’s a call to action,” noted Elizabeth Morrison, zoologist at the Natural History Museum of Jamaica in a recent release from the museum.

“It’s about changing how people see bats, from fear to fascination, and recognising their vital role in keeping Jamaica’s natural environment alive and thriving,” she added.

Open to the public for six months at the Natural History Museum of Jamaica, 10-16 East Street, downtown Kingston, the exhibition builds on the successes of the efforts of NEPA and BCI to protect two critically endangered bat species since 2018.

“Through habitat restoration, land protection, and community engagement, the programme has made significant progress in safeguarding these species and their cave-based ecosystems. Now, the Institute of Jamaica is expanding these efforts into public education and engagement – presenting the science in accessible, interactive formats for all ages,” the release revealed.

With 21 bat species, including five found nowhere else on Earth and eight others limited to the Caribbean, Jamaica holds the highest bat endemism in the region. These mammals play essential roles as pollinators, seed dispersers, and insect controllers.

“Through immersive displays, conservation stories, and scientific insights, visitors will learn how bats contribute to forest regeneration, natural pest control, and sustainable agriculture,” the release explained.

“The museum exhibition also aims to spark dialogue about the balance between development and environmental protection, particularly in areas with sensitive cave habitats,” it added.

Key outcomes anticipated include stronger public support for biodiversity conservation, increased visibility for the pioneering work of the NHMJ, BCI and NEPA, together with new opportunities for collaboration in research, tourism, and environmental education.