The Mauritius Free-tailed Bat (Mormopterus acetabulosus), an Endangered and understudied endemic species, faces severe threats, including habitat destruction and human disturbance. This project adopts a multi-stakeholder, participatory approach to develop a conservation strategy and action plan tailored to its survival.

Plaine des Roches is one of the most ecologically significant cave areas in Mauritius, boasting one of the island’s most extensive cave networks. It supports one of the largest known colonies of Mormopterus acetabulosus, yet also has some of the most threatened caves. Protecting these critical roosting habitats is essential for the species’ long-term survival.

By engaging local communities, conservation practitioners, and policymakers, we aim to:

• Assess policy and regulatory frameworks for cave conservation.
• Build local capacity through training on socio-ecological systems and conservation planning.
• Document the socio-economic and cultural interactions between Plaine des Roches communities and cave ecosystems.
• Investigate stakeholder perceptions of conservation actions for cave-roosting bats.
• Develop an evidence-based action plan integrating ecological, social, and regulatory dimensions.
• Disseminate findings through a high-impact scientific publication and a policy brief.

Mauritius’ caves, classified as Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs), provide essential ecosystem services and support unique biodiversity. This initiative fosters collaboration and sustainable conservation efforts, ensuring that science-driven strategies translate into real-world long-term impacts.