2nd July - Bat Survey
| Published: 17th June 2008 19:40 |
Wednesday 2 July from 9.15pm to 11pm
Join the Friends of Muckley Corner Common on Wednesday 2 July at 9.15pm, for an evening watching the splendid displays of our native bats, the real stars of the night sky. The bat survey event has been organised by Lichfield District Council's Countryside Team in partnership with the South East Staffordshire Bat Group. Come along and help us discover which bats are flying and feeding on Muckley Corner Common.
Bats are twilight creatures so to locate their prey and find their way in the dark they use echolocation, a series of shouts not to be heard by the human ear, which bounce off insects and obstacles to determine their location. By using a bat detector we can hear these calls and find out which species of bat are present.
Tamara Kabat, Lichfield District Council's Biodiversity Officer, said:" Bats are amazing but vulnerable animals, and they need our help. Surveying is essential as many of our bat species have declined dramatically over the last 60 years, due to loss of habitats, roost sites, and food such as moths. The information gained from the survey forms part of ongoing management works at the Common and will help improve our knowledge of animal species using the site."
Places are limited, so book your free place by calling the Countryside Team on 01543 308183, or email denice.deverall@lichfielddc.gov.uk Please note this is a survey event, not a walk, and will not be suitable for young children.
This is a busy time of year for bats, as they are most active in summer and their young are learning to fly. If you find a injured bat or one enters your home, and you need advice, please visit the Bat Conservation Trust's website at www.bats.org.uk for information or contact the Bat Helpline on 0845 1300 228.
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