Sociodemographic profile, ecoepidemiological aspects, and environmental perception of the residents of the environmental protection area of Combu Island regarding the chiropteran fauna, Belém, Pará, Brazil

Abstract

Bats, the only flying mammals, exhibit remarkable species diversity, ecological functions, and public health relevance. However, throughout the history of many cultures, they have faced numerous, often unfair stereotypes, generating negative perceptions that impact their conservation and local coexistence. This study established the socioeconomic, ecoepidemiological, and perception profile of residents in the Combu Island Environmental Protection Area, in Pará, regarding bats. The descriptive quali-quantitative study involved semistructured interviews with 120 riverine residents. Quantitative data were analyzed using the χ2 Test (p<0.05) in BioEstat 5.3, and qualitative data were examined through Content Analysis. Most residents had observed bats, and many feared diseases and aggression, despite recognizing their ecological importance. Results revealed cultural diversity, a predominance of adults, followed by children, in family units, and significant plant extractivism in the local economy, with few reports of the folklore surrounding bats. Residents often recognized the importance of bats in seed dispersal, but many were unaware of their role in insect control. Environmental education is essential to correct misinformation and foster a balanced understanding of bats. Perceptions varied with personal and cultural experiences, reflecting the complexity of human-bat interactions. It was concluded that awareness regarding the ecological relevance of bats is essential for understanding the island’s biodiversity. However, the implementation of educational programs integrated into the school curriculum as well as awareness campaigns is recommended to foster a harmonious coexistence between residents and the local fauna, reinforcing the importance of bats in maintaining ecological balance.