We have received exciting news from the Pelorus/Te Hoiere Bat Recovery Project. In early January, Forest & Bird reported the first long-tailed bat roost at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve.
Using a harp trap placed in front of the roost entrance volunteers and Forest & Bird staff captured 56 bats. The captured bats, mostly mums and their offspring, were unharmed and were released shortly after being caught.
"The juveniles have only just started flying after spending several weeks confined to the roost and relying on their mums for milk," reported Gillian Dennis, Bat Recovery Project Manager.
"Now that they have started flying they are very vulnerable as they are not yet great fliers and can easily become grounded – easy prey for predators."
Volunteers who are helping with the trapping efforts were amazed to see so many bats, reflecting on how years ago they were a rarity.
Forest and Bird officials mentioned that while it is exciting to see the bats roosting, it is important that visitors who come across an active roost be careful. This includes keeping noise levels to a minimum, keeping clear from the base of trees, and not interfering with any bats seen on the ground.
Five Elements customers have helped support the conservation efforts, as a portion of our profits is regularly contributed towards this cause.
