Inside Salisbury: Campaign to protect rare bat
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust plans to conserve and protect the rare Bechstein bat
by Annette J Beveridge
AN AMBITIOUS plan to expand its bat conservation work after considerable public support, has led to one wildlife organisation confirming funding has unlocked critical work.
The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s Habitat for Bats appeal is ongoing and will help to raise further funds to protect the rare Bechstein bat in Wiltshire. Conservation efforts can now go across nature reserves.
Although crucial for healthy ecosystems, bat populations face increased pressure from habitat loss, disease, and climate change and the Trust plans to safeguard diverse habitats to ensure essential roosting sites for bats throughout their lifecycle.
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Conservation Lead for Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Matt Callaway, said: “We've been truly heartened by the incredible response to our bat conservation appeal for Green Lane Wood. This support has inspired us to expand our efforts and launch the Habitat for Bats appeal, which will enable us to implement a comprehensive conservation strategy across six of our reserves.
“Bats are facing a myriad of challenges, from habitat loss and climate change to the devastating impacts of disease. By protecting and restoring their habitats, we're not just helping bats; we're safeguarding the health of our entire ecosystem. We believe everyone deserves the chance to experience the wonder of bats in their natural environment, and with the public's continued support, we can ensure these magnificent creatures have a thriving future in Wiltshire.”
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Conservation work includes improving water sources by creating and restoring ponds which provide essential drinking water for bats and support critical food sources, (insect populations).
There will also be a multi-year monitoring programme to track bat populations, understand their movements, and identify key areas for conservation action providing valuable data to ensure the long-term health of bat populations in the county.
It is an ambitious project and requires significant investment so the Trust is hoping to raise £60,000 through its Habitat for Bats appeal to kick-start this critical work across all priority sites.
The total cost of the work is estimated to be more than £100,000.
To donate to the Habitat for Bats appeal and learn more about Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's bat conservation efforts, go to www.wiltshirewildlife.org/appeals
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