Bats are essential to the world’s ecosystems, but they are known carriers of several viruses. Humans are increasingly encroaching upon their habitats, adding to the risk of new pandemics. Scientists are studying the animals for any clues about how to prevent any new outbreaks.

Protected areas are critical for maintaining a healthy environment for people and nature and are instrumental in meeting both local and international targets on biodiversity conservation. Biodiversity in protected areas can only be conserved effectively if data on species, their habitats and threats are collected systematically and regularly to allow evidence-based decision-making and adaptive management.