Gliselle Marin, a conservation biologist, is passionate about studying bats in Belize. During the annual Bat-a-thon, she and a group of researchers carefully untangle bats from nets to study them further. Marin, a biology PhD student at York University, has a deep love for bats, evident from her bat-adorned fanny pack, bat earrings, and bat tattoos.
Growing up in Belize, Marin was fascinated by the diversity of bat species in her country. She believes that bats play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem by pollinating plants, dispersing seeds, and controlling insect populations. Marin is particularly interested in studying bat poop to understand their diet flexibility, especially in the face of habitat degradation due to human activities.
Marin’s research aims to challenge the traditional categorization of bats by their feeding habits and emphasizes the importance of understanding their dietary flexibility for conservation efforts. As habitats are destroyed and climate change alters ecosystems, Marin questions how bats are adapting and whether their dietary flexibility is helping or harming their survival.
Despite being one of the few Belizean bat scientists pursuing a PhD, Marin is determined to bridge the gap between international research and local conservation efforts. She believes that involving the people of Belize is crucial for effective conservation, as they understand the value and history of their country’s natural resources.
Marin’s passion for nature and wildlife dates back to her childhood, where she spent time exploring the forests and oceans of Belize. Her family recalls her deep love for animals and her dedication to protecting wildlife. Marin’s mother, in particular, is proud of her daughter’s commitment to conservation and advocacy for bats.
As Marin continues her research in Belize’s forests, she encounters the stark reality of deforestation and habitat loss for agriculture. This fuels her determination to work with politicians and landowners to protect more forested areas. By engaging with local communities and advocating for conservation, Marin hopes to inspire others to recognize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Marin’s grassroots approach to conservation involves using bats as ambassadors to raise awareness among locals about the significance of protecting wildlife and ecosystems. She believes that everyone has a role to play in conservation and that by working together, we can safeguard Belize’s natural legacy for future generations.
