Posted on
The Limestone Coast Landscape Board has been working to better understand the roosting locations of the Southern Bent-wing Bat in the region. This critically endangered bat relies heavily on caves for shelter, breeding and survival.
'While several key roosting sites are known, there is a possibility that additional, currently unidentified sites may exist on private land." said Cassie Hlava, Limestone Coast Landscape Board Project Coordinator.
"This project provides Limestone Coast Landscape Board an opportunity to work with landholders in the region to protect caves and manage roosting areas for the bats." Cassie added.
Southern Bent-wing Bats only roost in caves in South East SA and South West Victoria, many of which are on private land. "Landholders play a vital role in protecting the Southern Bent-wing Bat, by sharing the location of any caves on their land, they can help safeguard the species that is at serious risk of extinction." Cassie commented.
Signs that the Southern Bent-wing Bat might be visiting a cave on your property include bat activity at dusk or dawn, droppings near cave entrances or audible squeaking from within the cave.
The Limestone Coast Landscape Board advises landholders not to enter caves to check for bat presence, due to the risk of disturbing the bats and health and safety concerns.
Any information provided to the Limestone Coast Landscape Board will be treated respectfully and confidentially, and any future steps will be discussed collaboratively with the landholder. It is important to note that any notification of a cave does not place any immediate obligations on the landholder.
This project is funded by the Australian Government's Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by the Limestone Coast Landscape Board, a members of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.
If you think you may have a potential Southern Bent-wing Bat roost on your property, please contact Cassie on 84229 7550.
