A large colony of Britain?s rarest bat species has been discovered in the Tamar Valley. Numbers of Greater Horseshoe Bats in the UK are believed to have declined by as much as 98% in the last 100 years and as few as 14 colonies are thought to have survived the 20th century. The colony of 100 females was discovered in an old adit hidden among woodland in the Gulworthy area. Experts say the seclusion and warmth provided by the old mine workings are ideal conditions for a nursery roost where young bats can be raised in safety. Their decline has been attributed to intensive farming practices which have disturbed the creature?s winter roosting grounds and reduced the availability of insects through the extensive use of pesticides. Despite this, farmers and landowners in the area are rallying to help protect this rare species and recently attended an informative walk organised by English Nature and the Tamar Valley AONB Service. The walkers visited the ancient Slew Cherry orchard and were shown how extensive grazing on the valley banks at Townlake can benefit the bats. James Diamond from English Nature said: ?Farmers have a vital role in supporting the population of Greater Horseshoe bats in the Tamar Valley. ?They manage the hedgerows, orchards and grazed pastures that are important feeding grounds and commuting routes for the bats. ?This is a great way of helping farmers to keep this management going both for the bats and the Tamar Valley landscape.? Alan Rhodes, a member of Defra?s rural development service who attended the walk, said he and his colleagues hoped local farmers would take advantage of the environmental stewardship scheme which will reward farmers for measures they take to improve the bat?s habitat further. Farmers and landowners who manage land on either side of the Tamar within 4km of Newbridge, near Gunnislake, are eligible for a free advisory visit and help with grant applications for the stewardship scheme. They are being encouraged to get involved. To find out more about the scheme and English Natrure?s Greater Horseshoe Bat Project contact the Tamar Valley AONB Service on 01579 351681. l Nature enthusiasts have the chance to explore and learn about Bats and Moths on Saturday July 9. Martin Summers will lead a walk through reed beds along the River Tamar, explaining the evolution of bats. The evening promises to be fun and informative with a variety of games to play and the possibility of seeing owls. The event has been organised by the Tamar Valley AONB service, which serves to protect and enhance the area. The evening starts at 8pm on the Bere Peninsula and is suitable for all ages, although booking is essential. For more information contact 01822 351681.
