As soon as you say the word ‘bat’, most people’s reaction is to screw up their face and shriek– but there are a growing number of people who like these little creatures and they want to tell everyone else why they’re so special. The Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) is a national charity that supports the conservation of bats in the UK.
 | | Bat detecting (courtesy Bat Conservation Trust) |
They’re launching a new project at Balsall Heath City Farm on Sunday 21st May, called Count Bat, which is an open day to find out about all things ‘batlike’. It is the first in a series of projects that BCT are holding around the country. Their aim is to encourage a diverse mix of people into bat conservation. They’re particularly keen for people in urban areas to get involved. Birmingham is home to 11 of the 17 species of bats. All things batty
For a fun look at the little creatures, the special bat open day at Balsall Heath City Farm will include: - Fun daytime activities for kids and adults, such as arts and crafts, bat games and so on
- Live bats, so you can see the local wildlife and get a close up look
- An evening bat walk around the area so you can learn more about the bats living in your area (this must be booked in advance or on the day)
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Not quite the Batmobile
 | | The Bat Van (Courtesy Bat Conservation Trust) |
The Bat van is the Birmingham and Black Country Bat Group’s answer to the Batmobile – but this one comes complete with a flying bat on top! It's been put together by the Friends of Cannon Hill Park who are working with the Count Bat Project. They’re going to be driving around Birmingham and the Black Country in the van, raising bat awareness. Find out more The bat groups want to encourage people to get involved in bat conservation locally. If the open day is successful, they’re hoping it will encourage people to get involved in the National Bat Monitoring Programme, which is an on-going national species count and an important wildlife survey. The Count Bat Project is being funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. For more information on the activities taking place you can contact Francesca Morrison at BCT on: 0845 1300 228. If you need help with a bat, or if you want to know more about conserving bats, call the Bat Helpline on 0845 1300 228 or visit the BCT website www.bats.org.uk.
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