Preliminary Study of Chiroptera at Padang Chong Forest Reserve, Hulu Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

The Padang Chong Forest Reserve (PCFR) is a significant part of the Central Forest Spine (CFS) initiative, specifically A-PL2. However, the information regarding chiropterans in PCFR is not extensively documented. To address this gap, our study aims to comprehensively document the occurrence of bats at PCFR. Surveys on bats were conducted in PCFR for five sampling sessions between June and November 2022. Two study plots were established at a distance of 500 m (Plot 1, P1) and 1000 m (Plot 2, P2) from the forest edge. A total of 10 mist nets and three harp traps were deployed in each study plot to capture the bats. Overall, 102 individuals and 24 species from four families of bats were recorded in PCFR. The Papillose Woolly Bat (Kerivoula papillosa) was the most abundant species recorded in this study, followed by the Forest Short- nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus cf. brachyotis ‘Forest’), with 15 and 13 individuals, respectively. P1 recorded more bat species than P2, with 19 and 16 species, respectively. The detection of bats in the forest reserve might be influenced by the availability of roosting sites, food resources, and foraging areas. These findings provide a strong basis for developing conservation strategies, and management plans to protect bat habitats in Perak.