Are Bats Really to Blame for the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Around the world, bats are blamed for disease. Bat scientist and conservationist Merlin Tuttle counters these fears and explains why these mammals are so important. Bats have been identified by some experts, and in the media, as the culprits behind the costliest pandemic in modern history, even though the source and method of transmission of the novel coronavirus remain unclear.

Wednesday, May 27 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET

Join Merlin Tuttle, one of the world’s leading bat scientists and conservation experts, to discuss the vital role bats play in ecosystems and how misplaced public health concerns are endangering these important mammals.This event will be an online Zoom webinar (registration required)

Did you know that without bats, there would be no bananas, avocados or mangoes? Over 300 species of fruit depend on bats for pollination. Bats help spread seeds for cacao — the main ingredient in chocolate.

https://www.doi.gov/blog/13-facts-about-bats