Bats in the Park

In early June, James Byrne, Chairman of Cardiff Bat Group, helped us conduct a Bat Survey in Cefn Onn. A number of members/ families turned up for what turned out to be a very successful evening. We spotted at least three species in the Park: The Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle, and the Noctule. Pipistrelles are the smallest and commonest bat in the UK and Europe, weighing around 5 grams (less than a £1 coin) and may consume up to 3,000 insects in one night! The rarer noctule bat is one of Britain’s largest bats (18g – 40g) and can fly at an amazing 30 miles per hour. All of these species have declined in the UK, mainly due to loss of habitat and changes in farming practices. James suggested the Park would benefit from some bat-boxes and a number of suitable locations were identified. Our next step is to try and secure some funding for these boxes, and the Bat Group will assist us further with their installation.

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