Bats elicit many emotions from us – fear, intrigue, aversion, adoration. These pint-sized flyers often go unnoticed, yet they play a vital role in maintaining the balance of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.From their incredibly unique adaptations to their contributions to pest control, bats are truly nature’s unsung heroes.We’re joined by Dr. Riley Bernard, an applied wildlife ecologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Zoology and Physiology at the University of Wyoming. Dr. Bernard’s research focuses on the ecology and behavior of cryptic species, including bats, on topics such as foraging, competition, invasive species interactions, the effects of disease on community structure, species susceptibility, and survival. When it comes to Greater Yellowstone bat ecology, she’s definitely an expert. This episode, Part 1, will explore what bat species are found in Greater Yellowstone, how their flying abilities stack up next to birds, their use of echolocation and how their prey adapts to combat it, and how bats are literally mini super moms. Also, prepare to be surprised by how fast some bats can fly!The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is the land of 49+ Indigenous Tribes who maintain current and ancestral connections to the lands, waters, wildlife, plants, and more.Voices of Greater Yellowstone was created by the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, a conservation nonprofit dedicated to working with people to protect the lands, waters, and wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, now and for future generations.> Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts.> Become a Podcast Insider> Donate to the Greater Yellowstone CoalitionPodcast Artwork > Rachel Dunlap ArtMusic >Redwood Trail by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...)Artist: http://audionautix.com/Thumbnail Photo > Bat Conservation International and Minden PicturesSend us a note!Support the show

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