Public Perceptions of Bat Research: A Social Media Analysis Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Category: Research Poster
Author(s): Yazeed Aljohani, Juliette Dashe, Trevor Hale, Shelby Cagle, Nicole Kelp
Presenter(s): Yazeed Aljohani
Mentors(s): Stacy Lynn, Shelby Cagle
Bats play a vital role in ecosystems, yet public perception of bat research is often shaped by concerns about zoonotic diseases. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Colorado State University (CSU) initiated a bat research facility at its Foothills campus, facing mixed reactions from the local community. This study examines post-COVID social media narratives about CSU’s bat research, comparing them to discourse surrounding similar research facilities in Montana, Kansas, and Texas. Using qualitative content analysis, we analyzed social media posts from platforms such as Facebook and X to identify key themes and sentiments. Preliminary results indicate that while some posts emphasize the ecological importance of bats, others highlight concerns related to biosafety, zoonotic disease risks, and institutional transparency. Notably, discussions around disease transmission, research safety protocols, and the role of universities in pandemic-related studies remain prominent. These findings highlight the ongoing challenges in science communication and the need for targeted outreach strategies. By addressing public concerns and fostering dialogue, CSU can improve community engagement and support for bat conservation and research initiatives.