A Photographer in Bat Paradise - His Photos are Impressive - Barro Colorado Island reveals 76 bat species' survival secrets in Panama

Barro Colorado Island, a 15 square kilometre research outpost in the Panama Canal, is home to an extraordinary diversity of bats. Created in 1907 by damming the Río Chagres, the island hosts 76 different species, each with unique survival strategies. The island is managed by the Smithsonian Institution and serves as a key research site for the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Here, experts like Elisabeth Kalko, a leading authority on tropical bats, have studied these creatures in depth. She collaborated with photographer Christian Ziegler, who spent years on the island capturing images of the bats in their natural habitat.

Among the species observed is the greater spear-nosed bat, which boasts a wingspan of up to 70 centimetres and hunts in the quiet coves of the island. The giant big-eared bat stands out for its social behaviour and two distinct hunting techniques, one of which involves catching fish. Some of these bats even showed signs of urine bleaching their fur, giving them a brighter appearance and possibly a warmer spot in the roost.

Their joint research has culminated in the book Bat Island: A Rare Journey into the Hidden World of Tropical Bats, now available for €49.99. The coexistence of 76 bat species on Barro Colorado Island highlights their adaptability and varied hunting methods. The book resulting from this research offers a detailed glimpse into their hidden world. It also underscores the island’s importance as a centre for scientific discovery.