Donal Hickey: Going to bat for our flying friends

Bats are often maligned in folklore, but in reality they are a very good measure of how good our habitats are and are an indicator that an area is in good environmental condition

Appearing after sunset, bats move at speed, weaving in and out, usually following a line of trees, or hedges.

Bats are being increasingly kept out of tightly-sealed buildings where they would like to roost, but other accommodation can be found for them. Bat boxes can be provided on trees while these harmless creatures can also be made welcome in countless abandoned houses and disused farm sheds.

As bats are protected under wildlife laws, it’s an offence to harm, disturb or handle them. They can take up residence in people’s attics, basements or sheds. So what happens when property-owners wish to remove them? First thing to do is to contact the local National Parks and Wildlife Service officers.