Laois' first ever bat group to be set up soon for nature enthusiasts

Bat enthusiasts across the county will be happy to hear that the first-ever Bat Conservation Group will be established in Laois soon.

The inaugural meeting of the Bat Conservation Group will take place on Wednesday, February 12 at 6.30pm in Portlaoise Library. Anyone with an interest in bats, biodiversity, or nature conservation are welcome to attend. 

This fascinating new group will bring the community together to actively support the protection and understanding of Ireland's bat species. 

There are nine species of bats in Ireland, all of which are protected under national and European law. Laois provides crucial habitats for bats, such as woodlands, hedgerows, rivers and also historic buildings.

The group aims to promote awareness of bats and their role in healthy ecosystems as well as encourage habitat conservation and responsible stewardship.

The group also hopes to support citizen science projects such as bat walks and acoustic monitoring, and provide training, talks, and volunteer opportunities for all ages. 

The group will work collaboratively with local communities, landowners, and national bat conservation networks.

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The first meeting will introduce the purpose of the group, outline opportunities for involvement, and include an introductory talk on the bats of Laois and how communities can help protect them.

All people need to join the group is an interest in nature and enthusiasm to get involved, no prior knowledge or experience is required. It also completely free to attend the meetings.

Commenting on the creation of the group, Laois County Council's Biodiversity Officer Lisa Doyle said: "This is an exciting opportunity for people across Laois to be a part of a conservation group. Bats are an important part of our natural heritage, and this group will help support these remarkable species."

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme