Bats are amongst our most fascinating and enigmatic wild animals. We still know very little about most of our species. What we do know however is that populations of all our commoner species have decreased greatly over the last 60 years. One species recently became extinct in Britain and others are now seriously endangered. The Herts and Middx Bat Group are working to further bat conservation in Hertfordshire and Middlesex. We also provide advice and information for householders and landowners and hope that you find our website a useful resource. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have a bat related query.
This site was last updated on 02 May [A Bat's Life]
The bat pictured above is a Nathusius' pipistrelle
A Bat's life: May
May is a busy month for bats particularly females who are finding suitable nursery roosts and establishing their maternity colonies. For pregnant bats gestation will last for 40-50 days in smaller species and up to 70 days in lager bats. In exceptionally favourable years females begin giving birth before the end of the month, but most babies arrive from mid-June onwards. Males will be largely separate in their own roosts (individually or in small groups) and are not involved in the raising of young.
Bats will be active most nights but will still occasionally return to periods of extended torpor during cold spells.
If you find a grounded bat outsidewewould appreciate if you'd call the helpline without delay. Grounded bats need protection from cats and inclement weather as soon as possible. If you find a bat flying around inside your property please refer to the tab ‘Need help with a bat?’. We'll guide you through some immediate steps which will reduce your concerns and greatly increase the bat's chance of survival.
Click on "Need help with a bat" tab for more detailed information.
Click on the "Events" tab for more information about forthcoming and future events. These include details of courses and bat walks in May for which booking is essential.
Thursday 31st May 2012, 8:00pm: Monthly Social Meeting
Regular social evening for bat group members and guests. Full details will be posted mid-May.
