On the final day of International Bat Week, an event brimming with anticipation, a remarkable bat from Oregon has clinched victory in the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) annual bat beauty contest.
Dubbed ‘Hoary Potter,’ this hoary bat exhibited not only a vibrant personality but also impressive abilities that captivated the audience. In a contest marked by close competition, Hoary Potter emerged triumphant over ‘Lestat,’ the western small-footed bat from Idaho, and ‘Sir Flaps-A-Lot,’ a Townsend’s big-eared bat from Utah. This victory continues Oregon’s winning streak, marking the third consecutive year a bat from the state has won the title. In previous years, the awards went to ‘William ShakespEAR,’ a female Townsend’s big-eared bat and ‘Barbara,’ a canyon bat, both hailing from southern Oregon.
The purpose of this contest, held since 2019, extends beyond entertainment. It serves to raise awareness about the ecological significance of bats, which thrive on public lands and are depicted in photos by agency staff. The images, displayed on BLM’s Facebook and Instagram pages, invite the public to vote for the most charming bat.
Hoary bats are known for their rapid flight and unique ability to wrap themselves in their tails, a technique that allows them to blend with leaves and evade predators. This distinctive trait adds to their allure and led to Hoary Potter being humorously likened to an ideal seeker for Quidditch, a fictional sport played on flying brooms in the Harry Potter series.
Emma Busk, a BLM wildlife technician responsible for capturing Hoary Potter’s photograph, emphasized the crucial ecological roles bats play. According to Busk, bats are imperative for insect control and the pollination of flowers and fruits. However, these essential animals face significant threats, including habitat loss, disease, and light pollution. Busk pointed out the common misconception that bats are dangerous disease carriers, noting that less than one percent of all bats carry rabies, and the transmission of diseases from bats to humans remains rare.
Busk hopes that contests like these will cultivate a deeper appreciation for bats, encouraging the public to view them not as fearsome creatures but as vital components of our ecosystem.
As the curtain falls on this year’s contest, the triumph of Hoary Potter highlights the fascinating and essential roles bats play in nature, urging for their preservation and appreciation.
Source: Local10
