In Shining a Light on Bats through Conservation Photography Advanced Inquiry Program student Alexandra Mason uses photography to “shine a positive light on” bats. With over 1,400 different species of bats in the world, bats play an important role in ecosystems through seed dispersal and pollination. Through her photography, Mason helps inspire an appreciation of and protection for these “uncharismatic species” which face many threats. “The more we can shine a light on these animals,” says Mason, “the better we can advocate for their conservation.” Mason’s article appears in the November issue of Animal Keepers’ Forum, a journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK). More about AAZK can be found at aazk.org.

Photo of Zookeeper Anthony Mason with Spectacled Flying Fox “Kuri” taken by Alexandra Mason.