Bats: ecology and using bat detectors

Aimed at the beginner/novice who wants to delve into the world of bats this workshop will introduce you to these night-time creatures and their ecology, including the opportunity to see how we can use technology to detect bats during a dusk walk on the nature reserve.

This evening course will cover a variety of aspects of bat ecology and life history. The basics of bat ecology will be covered, including anatomy, flight, life cycle and echolocation. We will consider this in the context of the 18 species of UK bat, their habitat use, and conservation.

Steve Masters is Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Living Landscapes Ecologist. He has a wealth of practical and ecological experience, since completing his degree in Zoology with Conservation. During this time, Steve has been an active member of Dorset Bat Group helping to further the understanding of bats in Dorset. During his last six years with Dorset Wildlife Trust he has been co-leading the work on bats across their nature reserves. He currently holds class licences for survey and research (level 2), roost visitor (level 1) and is an accredited agent for harp trapping.

Day workshop: £50 for tuition and guided dusk walk. 

All money raised helps to support the vital conservation work of Dorset Wildlife Trust, protecting wildlife now and for future generations to come.

Times: 4pm to 10pm.

What to bring: Notebook and pen, clothing, and footwear appropriate for the weather and uneven terrain.  

Photo: Tom Marshall

Terms and Conditions for Participants

DWT reserves the right to cancel the course at any time. In the event of DWT cancelling an event, a full refund will be issued.

DWT reserves the right to reschedule events in the event of unfavourable conditions and offer alternative dates or issue a full refund.

Courses will only take place if the minimum number is achieved. If the minimum number is not achieved, an alternative date will be offered, or a full refund will be issued.

Cancelling your booking

Cancellations are accepted at the discretion of Dorset Wildlife Trust and a reasonable cancellation cause should be provided by the participant.

You may request a cancellation up to 14 days before the date of the course or workshop. You may be charged an administration fee.