The natural places bats like to live, such as trees, have become scarce over the years due to development and land use changes. With a lack of natural features to roost in, some bat species like those commonly recorded in NightWatch surveys, have adapted to roosting (living) in urban spaces, including buildings, barns and bridges.
Bats can be threatened by our fast-paced way of life in the city. New housing developments, building works on properties and artificial lighting can all have an impact by disturbing, displacing, and harming bats if they are not properly planned. While local councils and developers have a responsibility to plan with nature in mind, we all have the opportunity to help our nocturnal neighbours. You can be a champion for your local bats by urging local councils and developers to consider bats as part of their plans.
On this page you can find out more about how to get your voice heard, and protect the local bats that might be at threat from development. Learn from a local council’s Climate and Ecology Officer what they look for when assessing new applications for development to the council and read one passionate NightWatcher’s inspiring story about her journey speaking up for wildlife as she objected to development plans at her local park.
As a small charity we regrettably cannot get involved in individual cases. We therefore rely on concerned bat champions like yourself to help us defend nature by bringing your concerns to the attention of planning authorities and developers.
You can find our full advice pack, including step by step instructions about how to raise a concern with your local authority, by clicking the link below.
