Toward a global bat-signal database.

We propose a scheme for a new database using standardized protocol for recording and analysis of bat calls. The proposed database will describe and archive echolocation signals to create a reference library of bat calls. This information should be accessible to the public, thus encouraging continuous feedback from a broad audience. Because it is essential to evaluate the quality and reliability of such data, detailed information of recording and analysis procedures as well as the resulting species identification is required. A standardized and growing database on bat calls would be a potentially invaluable tool for global species identification, comparison, and distribution of microchiropterans. Currently, apart from a few websites with local call libraries, there is no "global" database established yet. We hope that researchers, amateurs, and wildlife and management authorities will adopt and further modify our suggestions for a standardized database for bat calls. We also hope that this database will stimulate new directions in bat research.