The world's smallest mammal, the bumblebee bat is known only from western Thailand and, more recently, south-east Myanmar. Since it was first described in 1974 the Thai population has been disturbed by collectors and tourists wanting to see the world's smallest mammal. Today the main threats are from burning of the forest areas near the limestone caves in which it lives.

EDGE is supporting a Thai PhD student to carry out research on roost selection behaviour and threats to bumblebee bats in Sai Yak National Park, Thailand. The results of this study will help to inform a management strategy for the species. We are also hoping to work with local and international bat experts to implement a bat monitoring programme in Thailand, focusing on the bumblebee bat. Like other small bats, this species uses ultrasound to navigate and forage for food. Researchers can use bat detectors to pick up the call of bats in their roosts and hibernation sites, and use the information collected to monitor populations.

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£1000 Could cover in-country training and field costs for a local student to research and help conserve an EDGE species.