Dominican scientists rediscover bat species once thought extinct

Santo Domingo.- A team of Dominican biologists has identified two specimens of Nyctinomops macrotis, an endemic bat species of Hispaniola, which had not been reported since 1982. The discovery was made by researchers from Natalus Environmental Consulting during a two-year monitoring study funded by Barrick Pueblo Viejo in Aniana Vargas National Park.

Nyctinomops macrotis, the largest species of free-tailed bats (Molossidae family) on the island, plays a vital ecological role by feeding exclusively on insects, providing natural pest control. Both Nyctinomops and the solenodon are listed as “Critically Endangered,” highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.

Natalus Environmental Consulting, composed of experienced Dominican biologists and ecologists, has monitored over six caves and sampled more than 10,000 individuals from over ten bat species. This study represents the most comprehensive local research on bats, marking significant progress in their conservation and urging continued support for biodiversity preservation.