Bucknell University Professor DeeAnn Reeder, biology, is frequently cited as one of the world's leading scholars on bats, and she is now bringing the world of bats to a broader audience through her new book, The Lives of Bats: A Natural History. Published by Princeton University Press, the book will become available Tuesday, March 25.

For years, Reeder's research has taken her across the globe to study bats in their natural habitats. She has dedicated her career to understanding these secretive and often misunderstood creatures, and her new book invites readers to explore the biology, behavior and ecological roles of the planet's only mammals capable of powered flight.

"Bats are the second-largest order of mammals and inhabit almost every corner of the globe," Reeder says. "Yet, despite their enormous diversity and importance to ecosystems, they are often maligned and misunderstood. The Lives of Bats seeks to address those perceptions and shed light on their marvels and the conservation challenges they face."

Designed for an educated lay audience, the book blends Reeder's scientific expertise with photography and illustrations to create a visually detailed and informative resource. It profiles dozens of species, showcasing the remarkable adaptability and diversity of bats worldwide. Topics covered include anatomy, echolocation, diet, thermoregulation, mating behaviors, and the unique ways bats interact with viruses.

"There's a whole chapter on disease ecology," Reeder notes. "It discusses why bats may harbor more viruses than other mammals and how they manage to do so without becoming ill."

Reeder's journey in writing The Lives of Bats was shaped by her deep scientific background and years of field experience. The book draws from over 250 academic papers, ensuring readers can access to the most up-to-date and accurate information. Despite its scientific rigor, Reeder made the book accessible to a general audience.

"I've written other books, but they've all been highly technical," she says. "This was my first foray into writing for the lay public, and I worked hard to distill complex scientific concepts into clear narratives."

Reeder collaborated closely with the book's illustrator to ensure scientific concepts were accurately and beautifully depicted.

Structured into an introduction and eight informative chapters, the book explores different aspects of bat biology. Each chapter concludes with species profiles thematically linked to the subject matter, showcasing the incredible global diversity of bat species.

The book also delves into bats' evolutionary history, specialized adaptations, and crucial ecosystem roles. Reeder emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts, particularly in the face of habitat destruction and climate change, both of which threaten bat populations worldwide.

Reeder hopes that The Lives of Bats will not only inform readers but also inspire a greater appreciation for these often-overlooked creatures.

"It was important to communicate science in a way that resonates with people," she says.