Night flights bat walks at Inverness, Fort Augustus and Fort William
Join the Countryside Rangers and The Waterways Trust Scotland to discover more about the bats found living along the Caledonian Canal in Inverness, Fort Augustus and Fort William. Starting on the 24 August, three bat survey workshops will run on three different nights.
The first Bat Survey Night is from 8.30pm – 9.30pm on 24 August at Inverness; meet at the lowest lock on the Muirtown flight, Inverness.
People in Fort Augustus can take part in the initiative on 31 August. Meet at 8pm until 9pm at the lowest lock on the Fort Augustus flight.
Finally on 7 September, from 8-9pm, people in Corpach can make their recordings. Meet at the lowest lock on Neptune’s Staircase, Banavie, near Fort William.
Katy Martin, Countryside Ranger for Inverness said, “These workshops are a great way to find out what bats are using the Caledonian Canal to live and find food.” She added “If you have never heard a bat conversation or want to find out how many midges a bat can eat in one night, then come along and find out more.”
Stephen Wiseman of the Waterways Trust explains: “At 60miles long and with a reputation that spreads far from Scotland’s shores, the Caledonian Canal is relatively unknown locally. While visitors come from far and wide to cruise along the waterway, there are few opportunities for people nearby to experience the canal. I would like to get more local people to explore, use and, more importantly, care for the waterway, which stretches from Inverness to Fort William and these workshops might open people’s eyes to some of the wildlife on their doorsteps”
These survey workshops are free. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Please wear warm clothing and be prepared for inclement weather and maybe midgies!
To book a place or for further information please telephone Stephen Wiseman on 01463 725561.
The aim of the Highland Council Countryside Rangers is to promote public enjoyment and appreciation of the countryside and to conserve wildlife.
The Waterways Trust secured funding from Scottish Natural Heritage, British Waterways Scotland, the European Community Highland LEADER 2007-2013 Programme, Highland Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund and works in partnership with the Great Glen Way Ranger Service and Forestry Commission Scotland for this post.
END