Charity seeks ‘Bat Detectives’ to aid in Devon conservation

The Devon Wildlife Trust is on a mission to learn more about bats in Devon, and they need the public’s help.

Their annual Devon Bat Survey is gearing up for its ninth year, and they're looking for volunteers to join the cause.

Starting May 7, the survey asks volunteers to host special bat detectors in their gardens for three nights. 

These detectors pick up the sounds bats make as they fly around at night.

Last year, volunteers recorded over 350,000 bat flights, helping scientists learn about different bat species in the area.

ABOVE: Lindsay Mahon deploys bat detector

This information is crucial for protecting bat habitats.

The survey runs until October, and anyone can join in for free. 

Just sign up on the Devon Wildlife Trust website and choose your survey dates. 

Then, pick up your bat detector from one of 12 locations around the county.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Bat Survey Coordinator, Lindsay Mahon said: “We encourage people of all ages, in all parts of the county, to join in and take part in the Devon Bat Survey. All we ask is that you place your detector in a secure location, such as a private garden, follow the instructions we provide, and then enjoy your results. My top tip is to sign up early to take part as bookings fill up fast.”

Host centers for borrowing Bat Detectors around Dartmoor:

• Becky Falls, Manaton, Dartmoor
• The Tamar Valley Centre, Gunnislake, West Devon
• Devon Wildlife Trust, Cricklepit Mill, Exeter
• Younghayes Centre in Cranbrook, East Devon

Additional locations include:

• Avon Mill Garden Centre, Loddiswell, South Devon
• St Bridget Garden Centre, Clyst St. Mary, East Devon
• Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, Occombe Farm, Paignton
• Puffing Billy Café, Great Torrington, North Devon
• Northam Burrows Country Park, Northam, North Devon
• Braunton Burrows Countryside Centre, Braunton, North Devon
• The Garden Shop, Colyton, East Devon
• Churchinford & District Community Shop, Blackdown Hills

For more info and to sign up, visit the Devon Wildlife Trust website. 

Bookings open on May 7.

Remember, you must book your participation before collecting a bat detector.

Book here: https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/devon-bat-survey-2024