Our results align with the so-called “One Health” approach. It suggests that there is a close link between the health of environment, animals and humans,’ says Sommer. The study shows how changes in the species composition of wild animals – triggered by human encroachment into their habitats – could promote the spread of pathogens.

Besides guarding for future pandemics, protecting bats is also important for ecological reasons since this diverse group of animals provides a wide range of ecosystem services: they regulate insect populations, pollinate plants and spread their seeds. Preserving and protecting their habitats is therefore not only vital to maintain such ecosystem services, but aids in pandemic prevention.