FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Scientists have long suspected that Mexican long-nosed bats migrate through southeastern Arizona, but capturing and measuring these elusive nocturnal creatures had proven challenging.
Recent research has developed a new method to distinguish the endangered species from other bats by analyzing saliva left behind when they feed on nectar from plants and hummingbird feeders.
A collaborative effort involved residents from southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and West Texas, who participated in a saliva swabbing campaign. Samples collected along potential migration routes were sent to a lab at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, where researchers examined the samples for environmental DNA (eDNA) to confirm the presence of the bats in the region.
The Mexican long-nosed bat has been categorized as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act since 1988 and is notable for its role in pollinating important desert plants, such as cactus and agave.
In late January, wildlife officials announced the successful identification of these bats in Arizona, bringing the total number of bat species in the state to 29. This significant development highlights the importance of innovative and noninvasive research methods.
“If we were trying to identify the species in the absence of eDNA, biologists could spend hours trying to catch one of these bats, with no guarantee of success,” said a bat specialist from Arizona’s Game and Fish Department. “eDNA sampling provides us with an invaluable tool.”
Every spring, Mexican long-nosed bats embark on a long migration from Mexico into the southwestern U.S., following the blooming plants for nectar before returning in the fall.
Community volunteers were essential to the research, using kits to collect samples from bird feeders throughout the summer and fall.
At the university lab, microbiology students meticulously extracted DNA from the hundreds of samples. This lengthy process involved careful techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability in detecting the presence of the bats.
A comprehensive database aided the researchers in comparing the obtained DNA sequences to identify the species.
Additionally, the success of using eDNA sampling for other wildlife prompted researchers to apply the technique to bats, revealing that the creatures leave ample saliva on their preferred plants and feeders.
This groundbreaking research not only confirms the migratory habits of the Mexican long-nosed bat but also paves the way for future studies utilizing eDNA to monitor and protect endangered species.
