Stately home surveyors discover 61 bats in stone crevices and arches
THE LARGEST winter roost of common pipistrelle bats in the UK has been recorded in a fire-scarred stately home, the National Trust has said.
The discovery of 61 bats in stone crevices and arches of a balcony at Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland has revealed previously unknown information about the species’ hibernation habits, the Trust said.
Seaton Delaval Hall was a grand 18th century baroque “party” house belonging to the flamboyant Delaval family, hosting their costume balls, elaborate practical jokes and spectacular theatrical productions. The hall, which was partially destroyed by fire in 1822, was bought in 2009 by the National Trust, which undertook much-needed conservation work. It has recently been awarded £3.7m National Lottery funding for repairs and restoration, as well as moves to improve visitor facilities and bring its past to life.
An ecology survey carried out to assess whether it was possible to install new art and visitor information in the central hall of the building revealed the presence of more than 60 bats – with more thought to be hidden in crevices.
Tina Wiffen, bat ecologist, said: “We discovered the bats when we were undertaking an ecological survey to assess the possibility of introducing new art and visitor information installations into the central hall of the building – a project being supported by the National Lottery. On finding the bats, we conducted a formal survey and at least 60 bats were counted in February and 61 in early March with more visits then needed for verification. It’s likely that even more bats are here, hidden in deeper crevices.”
It’s likely that even more bats are here, hidden in deeper crevices. Tina Wiffen, bat ecologist.