Knowledge and Perceptions of Bat Guano Across Different Demographics in Malaysia
Keywords:
bat awareness, bat droppings, benefits, community, ecosystemAbstract
The study delves into the perceptions and knowledge of the local Malaysian community regarding bat guano. Bat guano, or bat faeces, plays a crucial role in cave ecosystems, serving as a source of energy and impacting habitat dynamics. Recognizing its properties is pivotal for effective conservation. Conducted through a virtual survey on platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and LinkedIn, the study assessed respondents' demographics, guano knowledge, its importance, and willingness to use it. Among 103 respondents, mostly aged 18 to 25, 64.08% were aware of bat guano, but few had used guano-derived products. Positive perceptions were linked to the age group (P=0.002), indicating younger individuals were more receptive. Challenges to broader acceptance included cleanliness and safety concerns heightened by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Despite efforts to provide information and change perceptions, 78.64% remained undecided about using bat guano in their daily lives due to persistent misconceptions. Public awareness and education are crucial for promoting its benefits, necessitating collaboration among researchers, educators, and government entities.
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