Bats

Bats--small, flying mammals--are found all over the world, from deserts to rain forests. They are important to many ecosystems, as they eat vast amounts of insects, including crop pests, which help reduce the need for pesticides. Bats also play a role in the pollination of many plants, as well as the dispersal of seeds, which aids in the restoration of disturbed areas. Because of their importance to the environment, bats are protected in some areas and their populations are monitored.