Carried out by the Northern Ireland Bat Group
Coney Island Bat Survey
Carried out by the Northern Ireland Bat Group
Introduction
Half of all animals are bats, 950
different species, and they are the only true flying mammal. One bat can eat up
to 3500 insects a night. These range from small midges to medium sized moths.
Most of the knowledge that the public has regarding bats is a myth. Bats are not
blind and can see as well as us in good light. While foraging at night
echolocation gives a bat perfect "vision" better than radar.
On
Coney Island
Evidence for the existence on the island
of Pipistrelle (pipestrellus pipestrellus). From observing bat swarming at dawn
it is estimated that numbers may be up to 500. Also Leisler bats were heard
feeding above the tree canopy.
Pipestrelles and Leisler's were seen feeding around the reed beds.
Flying in the open area above the picnic tables Northern Ireland's newest bat
was detected .. this is Nathusius' Pipestrelle for which there are few records.
It is almost certain that one or more of the following species of
bat, those being Daubenton, Whiskered and Natterers live on the island.
