Kaduna, Nigeria—A Nigerian scientist has voiced strong condemnation of the increasing attacks on migratory bats that gather at the historic Kaduna State House of Assembly Garden. Dr. Piman Hoffman, head of scientific research and wildlife protection in Africa, has called for urgent collective action to protect these bats, which migrate from diverse locations to give birth in the tranquil surroundings of the garden.
Millions of migratory bats are drawn to the garden due to its cool climate and tall trees, which provide an ideal sanctuary for birthing. However, their survival is now under threat from local hunters targeting the bats. Dr. Hoffman revealed that up to 50 to 60 bats are being killed daily, primarily using catapults—a practice he warns could lead to the decline of bat populations and disrupt ecological balance.
In a statement, Dr. Hoffman urged wildlife conservationists, the state government, and local communities to join forces to halt the attacks. He emphasized that the bats' reliance on the garden’s natural environment for reproduction makes them particularly vulnerable to such aggressive hunting practices.
Additionally, Dr. Hoffman called on the Kaduna State government to deploy security forces to apprehend those responsible for these killings. He also appealed to the local population to abandon the hunting of migratory bats for meat, pointing out its negative ecological impacts. The scientist condemned the practice as unsustainable and criticized the perception of bat meat as a delicacy, with some hunters claiming its sweetness as justification for their actions.
Beyond local implications, this situation highlights a global challenge. In 2022, the United Nations issued a warning that nearly one million plant and animal species face extinction globally, citing factors such as climate change, pollution, and human activities. The plight of the migratory bats underscores the need for immediate and unified action to protect vulnerable wildlife species and preserve biodiversity.
Dr. Hoffman has also called for increased awareness campaigns—both online and offline—to educate the public on the importance of protecting these bats. He stressed that their survival is critical not only for the ecosystem but also for future generations.
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