The study focuses on the ecological and faunistic survey of bats in Pune, India. While ecologists in the region often discuss the flora and other disturbances related to fauna, bats have been largely ignored. However, bats play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. The study aimed to examine bats in relation to the changing ecology of Pune city.

The researchers conducted a pilot survey by visiting potential bat habitats during the evening hours when bats emerge. Roosting sites were confirmed through day visits, locating food droppings and excreta. The study spanned two years, from 1998 to 2000, and considered behavioral changes, roosting sites, feeding habits, and bat biology.

Two groups of bats were studied separately: fruit bats and microbats. Three species of fruit bats were recorded, including Indian flying fox, large flying fox, and short-nosed fruit bat. Four roosting colonies of flying foxes were found, spread across the city near riversides and canals. These colonies were protected due to positive human attitudes or cultural beliefs. The fruit bats mainly fed on wild plants, as the cultivated orchards around their roosts were not suitable for them.

The most common species among microbats was the little short-nosed fruit bat. They preferred roosting in dark and humid ceilings of old buildings or thick foliage of certain trees. Their roosting sites were marked by droppings of fruits, seeds, and leaves. Other microbat species were found in old buildings, tree holes, and one cave. However, the population of microbats was impacted by the disappearance of roosting sites due to human activities and the lack of natural caves in the area.

The study concluded that while the population of fruit bats was satisfactory, there was limited species diversity. Microbats exhibited a wide range of species diversity but faced challenges due to the destruction of roosting sites. The disappearance of bat colonies due to human interference raised concerns among ecologists. Insectivorous bats, in particular, play a vital role in controlling insect populations, including mosquitoes.

Overall, the study highlighted the importance of bats in the ecosystem and the need to protect their roosting sites from human activities and habitat loss.