An update on the status of some Data Deficient bat species from India

Globally, a significant percentage of bat species are classified as Data Deficient indicating a shortage of sufficient data on distribution and abundance to make a status assessment. Among these species, 12 species also occur within the political boundary of India. Based on scattered data generated over the last eight years, an update is presented on the occurrence status of five of the Data Deficient bat species in India. A call for a renewed push in field studies is needed to enhance the understanding of the chiropteran fauna of India. A National Red List Assessment of Indian Bat fauna is also suggested as a priority exercise for developing a country- specific conservation plan.