Bats Deliver Seeds

From: Pat Maxwell
Series: July 2012 - Isla Earth Radio Series
Length: 01:30

The world’s rainforests are disappearing at an alarming rate. But conservationists have a new trick that may help restore them. All it takes is some fake fruit, legions of gullible bats, and what conservationists call “seed rain.” Read the full description.

Piece Audio

Playing: Bats Deliver Seeds
From: Pat Maxwell

Isla_earth_inlay The world’s rainforests are disappearing at an alarming rate. But conservationists have a new trick that may help restore them. All it takes is some fake fruit, legions of gullible bats, and what conservationists call “seed rain.” You see, the South American leaf-nosed bat feeds on rainforest fruits. And they swallow plenty of seeds in the process, which they later excrete as they fly through the forest. “Seed rain” from these batty bombardiers contributes to forest growth and diversity...

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Piece Description

The world’s rainforests are disappearing at an alarming rate. But conservationists have a new trick that may help restore them. All it takes is some fake fruit, legions of gullible bats, and what conservationists call “seed rain.” You see, the South American leaf-nosed bat feeds on rainforest fruits. And they swallow plenty of seeds in the process, which they later excrete as they fly through the forest. “Seed rain” from these batty bombardiers contributes to forest growth and diversity...