Photo: Johner Images / Johner Images Royalty-Free / Getty Images
Bats play a crucial role in our food systems by pollinating and dispersing seeds for crops like agave, bananas, and almonds.
Despite their importance, bats are often overlooked in conservation efforts.
The growing demand for agave-based spirits like tequila and mezcal is putting migratory bat species at risk due to unsustainable harvesting practices.
Farmers like Troy Swift are recognizing the benefits of bats for pest control in agriculture, with studies showing that bats save billions of dollars in crop damage and pesticide use.
Conservation efforts, such as planting bat-friendly gardens and protecting bat habitats, are essential to ensure the survival of these valuable creatures.
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