Brown rats threaten bats: urgent need for action in Segeberg!

Brown rats threaten bats: urgent need for action in Segeberg!

In a worrying research finding, biologists have documented alarming attacks by brown rats on bats in Segeberg's Kalkberg Cave. According to scinexx.de, over 30 attacks were filmed in just five weeks, with 13 of these attacks ending fatally for the bats. The rats, which are not afraid to eat the killed animals, pose a serious threat to the bat populations that live there.

These aggressive hunting strategies of brown rats include lying in wait at the entrance to winter quarters, where they snap at unsuspecting bats in flight, as well as quick attacks on resting or landed animals. Biologists estimate that this results in thousands of bats being killed in Segeberg every year. A rat colony of just 15 animals could capture up to seven percent of the 30,000 fluttering animals that hibernate there.

Risks for people and the ecosystem

In addition to endangering bats, the presence of brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) can pose potential health risks to humans. These animals are known to be reservoir hosts for various viruses, meaning they could pick up pathogens from the bats and spread them to urban areas. The Federal Environment Agency emphasizes that there is currently no evidence of an acute health risk. However, serious consideration should be given to controlling rat populations in cities and bat roosts.

To deal with the rat problem, preventive measures are crucial. Brown rats are usually found in areas where they have access to food and nesting opportunities. To prevent permanent settlement, food waste should not be disposed of through the toilet, and window openings and door gaps should be secured. Junk and rubbish provide nesting places that should be avoided at all costs.

The role of brown rats in nature

Brown rats are omnivorous animals that prefer to eat plant foods, but are also not afraid of carrion. In such a feeding opportunity, they could ingest potentially dangerous germs. A female rat can give birth to an average of eight offspring up to six times a year. With a weight of up to 500 grams and a head-torso length of 19 to 30 cm, they have spread widely worldwide, especially in urban settlements.

The activities of brown rats are not only biologically interesting, but also far-reaching problematic, as the incidents in Segeberg impressively show. In order to protect the endangered bat population and minimize possible health risks, targeted control of brown rats may be necessary. After all, keeping our eyes open to nature means acting in the best interests of the environment and our health.