9th September 2005

Bats of the Blackwater

If you’ve never seen a bat swooping low to catch an insect in the half light after dusk you’ve missed out on an unforgettable experience. Why not come along and learn about the bats found in the Blackwater Valley on a Bat Walk at Horseshoe Lake by Sandhurst on Friday 23rd September, led by Steve Bailey of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership.

Britain is home to 16 bat species, three of which you may encounter at Horseshoe Lake, Pipistrelles and Daubenton’s (also sometimes known as Water Bats) both with a wingspan between 19-25cm, are regulars, but it is possible that you may see the more elusive and larger Noctule,
 with a wingspan of 33-45cm.

During the walk there will be an opportunity to listen to the bats’ high frequency ultrasonic calls – known as echolocation – using a bat detector. Bats emit high-pitched squeaks as they fly, using the pattern of the returning echoes to locate their prey: the moths, flies and midges they feed on. Each bat species uses a slightly different frequency, which a detector will transform into sounds audible to humans.

Anyone wishing to join the walk should be at the Horseshoe Lake car park just to the left of the entrance to the Horseshoe Lake Watersports Centre, off Mill Lane, Ash for a 7pm start. The walk will last about two hours and please bring a torch. Families welcome.

This walk is part of the ‘Discover the Blackwater Valley 2005 Programme’ organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership and designed to encourage residents within the Blackwater Valley area to learn more about the countryside on their doorstep. For a copy of the programme ring 01252 331353.

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For further information contact:
Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353.   

Notes

• The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership (BVCP) is funded by the County, District and Parish Councils along the River Blackwater. It works to promote community action in conservation and recreation and to protect the Valley for the enjoyment and well being of the whole community.
• Members of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership are: Hampshire County Council, Surrey County Council; the District, Town and Borough Councils of Blackwater & Hawley, Bracknell Forest, Farnham, Guildford, Hart, Rushmoor, Sandhurst, Surrey Heath, Waverley, Wokingham and Yateley.