Barbastelle Bat Report

Bovey Valley, the home of the rare Barbastelle bats. Credit: Adam Burton/WTML.

This project was commissioned by the Woodland Trust and Natural England to fill current knowledge gaps in our understanding of the ecological requirements of B. barbastellus in Bovey Valley Woods. Research focused on examining seasonal variation in roosting and foraging behaviour of adult bats during the summer maternity period, and seasonal variation in prey choice. The research findings will be used to inform the management of woodlands and the wider landscape, to promote conditions favourable for Barbastelles.