The project is helping scientists gather vital data to better understand how local bat populations move, where they live, and how their habitats can be protected. As part of this work, schools across North Somerset are getting involved, giving pupils the chance to learn about the importance of bats and the role they play in our natural environment.
Each school taking part has enjoyed an educational talk on the importance of bats and the ecosystems they support. Schools will also receive a bat box to install on their grounds, helping create safe roosting spaces and giving students a lasting way to support local wildlife.
Schools interested in taking part in future sessions or receiving a visit are invited to email the team at northsomersetbats@bath.ac.uk to register their interest.
This is a citizen science project, meaning local volunteers of all ages, including school groups play a crucial role in collecting data on bats, including internationally protected species such as the greater and lesser horseshoe bats. The recordings gathered will feed directly into cutting‑edge research and future conservation planning, helping ensure these remarkable nocturnal mammals thrive for generations to come.
Cllr Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment,said: “We are delighted to support this innovative project, which is bringing communities, scientists and young people together to protect some of our most fascinating local wildlife. The involvement of schools is particularly exciting, helping to inspire the next generation of environmental champions.”
A local teacher praised the talk, highlighting its impact on young learners: “The session was pitched perfectly for our KS1 children and was an excellent workshop during our Science Week. The children loved the echolocation game and could recall lots of facts after the session.”
“Dani and Rachael from the Bat Survey Project were absolutely brilliant! They shared their knowledge about bats and how to care for them in the environment in a fun, age-appropriate and enthusiastic way. The activities were engaging and inclusive to all children. The pens and seeds were a hit with the children too! We would definitely welcome them back and absolutely recommend them.”
How it works:
The North Somerset Bat Survey runs from May to October, giving volunteers a wide window to take part and contribute valuable data. Getting involved is simple:
- Choose your patch – select a 1km² area near where you live.
- Pick up your kit – collect a bat acoustic detector from a local hosting centre.
- Start surveying – place the detector in your chosen area for six nights to capture bat activity.
- Share your findings – upload your recordings to the online portal and discover which bat species are living in your neighbourhood.
It’s simple, fun, and genuinely impactful, and a fantastic way to connect with North Somerset’s natural environment.
To learn more or to sign up as a volunteer, visit: 🔗 www.batconservationresearchlab.co.uk/north-somerset-bat-survey
