Found almost exclusively in woodland, Bechstein's Bat is one of our rarest bats. Like all British bats they are nocturnal, feeding on midges, moths and other flying insects which they find in the dark by using echolocation. Bechstein's Bats hibernate over the winter. Mating occurs in autumn and spring, with maternity colonies forming in April and May. Females gather in colonies of between 10 and 30 bats, but can number up to 100 in some cases. Babies are born in June and July. Adults are active from April to October
Bechstein's Bats have pink faces, long ears which are clearly separated at the forehead, reddish-brown fur on their back and pale-grey fur underneath.
Bechstein's Bats are very rare due to the extensive loss of our woodland habitats. Pesticide-use has also reduced their insect-prey. The Wildlife Trusts are working hard to restore our native woodlands and you can help our bats in your own garden, too, by putting up a bat box. Pick a tree that gets some sun during the day, but is near to a hedge or other trees. All UK bats and their roosts are protected by law, which means it is illegal to harm or disturb them.
This cache is a clip lock box in a camouflage bag. There is a certificate for the First To Find. Please feel free to swap any item in the ‘cache but please remember, if you take something, leave something of equal or greater value in return.
Renumbered from 6 to 12 to create a more logical series around the forest .
First To Find honours go to: Mackiespal
N.B. All the caches in this series have been granted permission to be placed by Joanne Mason, the Beat Manager for the forest, and written permission has been passed to the Reviewers. The Forestry Commission will not give permission for any more caches in these woods. Please do not ask the Reviewers to place any further caches as the FC will not allow it and placement of further caches will result in geocaching being banned in this area.