Research carried out by E³ Ecology Ltd

RESEARCH

Anabat monitoring of bat use of the Churches of the North Tyne valley

A current project is investigating the bat use of a series of churches within the North Tyne valley.

It has been known for a number of years that all support traditional roosts used by small numbers of bats during the summer months, however little is understood as to how the buildings are being used during the winter hibernation season and over the spring and autumn periods.

To date the project has demonstrated use of Humshaugh Church, by individual common and soprano pipistrelle bats during the hibernation period.

This building was known to support small numbers of Natterer's bats during the summer months, but levels of use by other species and at other times of the year was unknown.

During the harsh weather conditions of January 2010 when temperatures remained below freezing for much of the month, individual bats were found to become active, flying within the enclosed roof space of the church, on the occasional nights when temperatures remained above 5°C.

Further survey work including dawn swarming surveys and remote monitoring work will be completed during the 2010 survey season.