BatMap – authoritative distribution maps for Australian bats.

BatMap is a project that has enabled the development of spatial distribution maps for all mainland Australian and Tasmanian bat species. The distribution maps were developed by bat experts and are actively updated and maintained by utilising the collective knowledge of the members of the Australasian Bat Society. Distribution maps are the most accurate maps that are currently available for Australian bat species. The distribution maps are freely available on-line in a variety of formats. The distribution maps have been used for a variety of purposes, including the assessment of the spatial and taxonomic accuracy of bat records from ecological datasets, particularly datasets that are managed by the Atlas of Living Australia, which are considered by many to be the key source of spatial information for bats. BatMap enables better conservation outcomes for Australian bat fauna through the provision of authoritative, readily accessible and usable maps that can be used to increase the accuracy and reliability of bat records that contribute to decision making processes for conservation purposes. BatMap (https://www.ausbats.org.au/batmap.html) is a set of distribution maps, that have been developed by experts, for every bat species in Australia. The maps can be used for a variety of purposes including: discovering where bats occur; checking the accuracy of bat records; brochures and posters; and assessing areas proposed for development against bat species that are likely to occur there. Knowing what bats occur where can help us to better manage and achieve better conservation outcomes for the Australian bat fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]