New species of bright orange bat discovered in Guinea Posted on 17 January 2021 Scientists discovered a new species of orange and black mountain bat in the mountains in West Africa. The researchers were led by the American Museum of Natural History and Bat Conservation International and believe this new species are likely critically endangered. The new species has been named Myotis nimbaensis, as it comes from the Nimba mountains. ‘In an age of extinction, a discovery like this offers a glimmer of hope,’ said Winifred Frick, chief scientist at Bat Conservation International and an associate research professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz in a statement. ‘It’s a spectacular animal. It has this bright-orange fur, and because it was so distinct, that led us to realise it was not described before. Discovering a new mammal is rare. It has been a dream of mine since I was a child.’ The new species has been named Myotis nimbaensis, as it comes from the Nimba mountains. The mountains are well-known for their biodiversity and extensive species of bats. ‘As soon as I looked at it, I agreed that it was something new,’ said Simmons, the lead author of the paper and Bat Conservation International Board member. ‘Then began the long path of documentation and gathering all the data needed to show that it’s indeed unlike any other known species.’ The researchers are working on ensuring the habitats in these mountains are safeguarded for these species. This is especially needed as many species are disrupted by the mining projects in the area. Picture: American Museum of Natural History. Related Posts The Lady in the Landy: Carla Geyser 7 February 2023 "We cannot sit back and wait for a miracle to happen; every one of us... read more 88 countries agree on shark fin regulation in historic vote 22 November 2022 Panama was host to CITES in November 2022. For the first time in history, 88... read more The big question after Plett’s fatal shark attack: Why? 27 September 2022 By now, we know that sharks are not the mindless killing machines that horror movies... read more PREV ARTICLE NEXT ARTICLE
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