When the forest fails: bats will find refuge in settlements!

When the forest fails: bats will find refuge in settlements!

Potsdam, Deutschland - The small evening sailor (Nyctalus Leisleri), a domestic bat type, is increasingly facing challenges due to the loss of suitable habitats. As Uni-potsdam.de , these animals are dependent on old trees and structurally rich forests. In the forestry cultures used, however, suitable quarters are often missing, which forces the small evening sailors to look for shelter in settlements. A study by the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research has examined the use of this bat type using GPS data.

The results show that small evening sailors are increasingly finding shelter in old tree stands and old buildings, such as village churches. Old trees, especially oaks, are crucial for their habitat choice. These findings coincide with the findings of a current research project that wants to develop a species action plan for the small evening sailor in order to address impending threats from habitat losses and collision risks to wind turbines. According to Fleerkutschutz.de , the small evening sailor in Germany has an unfavorable state of maintenance, and its existence partially declines.

Influence of wind turbines

The intensive management of European forests has negative effects on specialized species such as the small evening sailor. The study shows that these bats perceive wind turbines as an additional danger because they attract them and thus increase the risk of collisions. According to ​​bfn.de , the expansion of wind power in the forest is massive, which is affected by numerous bats that are endangered by habitat losses and collisions. It is therefore important not to build new wind turbines near structurally rich deciduous forests or bat quarters.

recommendations for sustainable forestry were also pronounced. These include a gentle wood harvest, longer growth times and the promotion of forests with different old trees. Old and cave -rich trees should also be preserved in settlements in order to support the habitat requirements of the small evening sailor. Unfortunately, there are currently gaps in knowledge about the Nubstance, Pairing and O through-Interior Societies of this kind.

Need for further research

The aim of the research project mentioned is to gain knowledge about the ecology of the small evening sailor in order to be able to develop suitable protection and support measures. The results of the past and genetic analyzes are based on the results. Targeted box controls during mild winter days should serve to investigate winter distribution. In addition, animals are telemetering to examine their train paths between summer and winter areas.

Overall, the current studies provide extensive data for foresters, landscape ecologists and nature conservation authorities. This information is crucial to initiate effective protective measures for the small evening glider and other affected bat species and thus to ensure the preservation of their habitats.