Spatial Distribution of Straw‐Colored Fruit Bats (<i>Eidolon helvum</i>) Roosts in Obafemi Awolowo University

Bats are essential to ecosystem functioning, providing vital services such as pollination, seed dispersal, and insect control. With over 1400 species worldwide, they exhibit diverse roosting behaviors that are influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors. However, research on bat populations, particularly in urban environments, remains limited in Nigeria. The study investigated the spatial distribution of Straw-Colored Fruit Bat (<i>Eidolon helvum</i>) roosts within the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) campus in Nigeria. Using field surveys and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis, the researchers mapped bat roost distribution, identified hotspots, and explored tree species preferences. Our findings reveal that roosting sites are predominantly clustered in sections of the campus, particularly in the Faculty of Science and Faculty of Administration areas, with 83% of observations recorded in Section D. <i>Celtis zenkeri</i> was identified as the most preferred roosting tree species, accounting for 16.54% of total observations. The study emphasizes the importance of specific tree attributes, such as height and canopy area, in roost site selection within the urban campus environment. The research contributes to a better understanding of bat roosting ecology and provides insights to guide conservation strategies, recommending that urban planners prioritize the preservation of preferred tree species like <i>Celtis zenkeri</i>. Additionally, statistical analyses, including a one-way ANOVA, confirmed significant preferences for tree heights ranging from 15 to 20 m. This research highlights the need for targeted conservation strategies that consider the specific roosting habits of bats in urban settings, emphasizing the importance of preserving key tree species and habitats within rapidly urbanizing landscapes.