Bat research in Dow Cave- setting harp traps.
Why was there a need for the project?
Caves are important mating and hibernation sites for many temperate bat species and critical to their continued survival. The Yorkshire Dales National Park has more caves and kilometers of cave passage than anywhere else in the UK, yet prior to this project virtually nothing was known about their importance to bats.
What was the project's aim?
The aim of the project was to survey the major caves, determine the bat species present and estimate the number of bats using key sites. We also wanted to understand the behaviour and ecology of cave use in order to prepare better conservation plans. Finally we wanted to make the importance of the caves known to the widest possible audience.
What did the project achieve?
We have surveyed over 60 caves, finding that bats make use of the majority, but sometimes in small numbers. Many of the larger caves are important sites, each attracting thousands of bats in the autumn from summer roosts far beyond the boundaries of the national park. We have learned what makes a cave suitable for bats and how caves fit into the bats’ life cycle. We have written a cavers’ conservation code, promoted our project through local and national presentations, written articles for wildlife and caving magazines and published our findings in international scientific journals. The project has featured in BBC TV and radio programmes, including a live, underground transmission for 'Autumnwatch'.
Who was involved?
The project team at the University of Leeds, led by Anita Glover and John Altringham, was funded by the Natural Environment Research Council and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. We received additional funding or support from The People’s Trust for Endangered Species, The National Trust, the Council for Northern Caving Clubs and numerous local cavers and naturalists.
Further information and contact for publications:
Glover, A. & Altringham, J., 2006. The use of underground sites by bats in the Yorkshire Dales. Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority Conservation Research & Monitoring Reports No.4.
