Protects the bats: call to protect your habitats in Bavaria

Protects the bats: call to protect your habitats in Bavaria

bats are in a critical phase, especially during the winter months in which they retire in caves. In order not to disturb these creatures worth protecting, the Bavarian State Association for Cave and Karst Research, Excursions and other activities in caves appeals to the period from May to September. This is not only necessary out of respect for the animals, but also out of consideration for the sensitive ecological conditions during this time.

The challenges that the bats in Germany face are diverse and worrying. According to the Nabu nature conservation association, around 25 types of bats live in Germany. But it is not enough, emphasizes Uwe Hermanns, spokesman for the Federal Bat Fat. He points out that there are considerable regional differences that can affect the existing and survival of these animal species.

limitless difficulties for bats

A large part of the problems for the bats are closely associated with intensive agriculture and the loss of natural habitats. Insects that represent the main food source of the animals can be found less and less due to pesticide use and monocultures. In addition, bats are available and fewer suitable quarters, such as window boards and attics.

The importance of the bats for the ecosystem is immense. They contribute to combating pests, which underlines their role in preserving ecological balance. The loss of these animals could have far -reaching consequences for agriculture and the environment.

Despite the efforts to protect bats, there are concrete threats that endanger their existence. One of the main causes is the nightly lighting that also stresses the animals. Wind turbines also represent a latently dangerous risk. These aspects illustrate how important it is to take into account the needs of these animals and to create awareness.

protective measures and their importance

In order to introduce effective protective measures, rethinking in land use and building infrastructure is necessary. The LBV took an important step in 2021 by taking over a house in Franconian Switzerland in which the small horseshoe nose lives. Such initiatives are crucial to create targeted improvements for the living conditions of these animals and thus keep the population stable.

The signs of many caves are old acquaintances that indicate the winter rest of the bats. A particularly well -known winter quarters is located in Bad Segeberg, where around 30,000 bats hibernate. From this point of view, one could say that the protection of the bats is not only a question of nature conservation, but also a common responsibility that affects everyone.

A call to action

If we recognize the importance of the bats for our ecosystem and take the effort to preserve this species seriously, we can possibly get habitats worth protecting and bring the endangered species back into balance. It is crucial that we now act seriously and take the recommendations of the nature conservation associations seriously to bring about the necessary changes. The example of the big horseshoe nose shows that there is hope when we work together to maintain our nature.

The role of the bats in the ecosystem should not be underestimated. They contribute significantly to the control of pests by eating large amounts of insects. Studies show that a single bat can consume up to 1,200 insects in one night. This has positive effects on agricultural production and can reduce the need for pesticides, which in turn can have negative environmental impacts. According to the NABU, bats through their insect eating contribute to maintaining biodiversity and promoting the health of the ecosystems.

threats for bat population

The main threats for bat population in Germany include the loss of habitats, agricultural intensification, use of pesticide and light pollution. During the urban expansion, many of the natural habitats of the bats are cut, which affects their reproduction and hike. In particular, intensive agriculture reduces the insect inventory, the search for food for bats is crucial. In an investigation by the Federal Office for Nature Conservation, it was found that 80 percent of the bat species in Germany recorded a decline in their stocks.

Another aspect is the risk of wind turbines. These can become death traps for bats because they often fly near these systems. The BUND pointed out that special protective measures are necessary for the construction and operation of wind turbines to protect the stock of bats.

protective measures and initiatives

To support bat populations, there are various protective measures and initiatives. The NABU has launched programs that concentrate on the elucidation of the public and practical protective measures. This includes the attachment of bat boxes, the creation of protected areas and the implementation of surveillance programs to assess the health of the populations. The LBV is actively involved in the restoration of habitats and offers targeted reforestation programs to create new quarters.

An example of successful protection projects is the development of the bat teaching trail in Bavaria, which educates visitors about the importance of bats and promotes active nature conservation. Such initiatives are crucial to sharpen the awareness of the problems with which these animals are faced with and to mobilize wider support for their preservation.