17 August 2000
VISIT A BAT ROOST AT DUSK, IF YOU DARE...
Are you afraid of bats? Does the very thought conjure up a Hammer-horror image in your mind?
To alleviate your fears, DOE EHS have arranged a "Bat Night" to reassure you that bats are in fact fascinating little creatures which can do you no harm.
As part of the continuing summer activities at Roe Valley Country Park the "Bat Night" will be held on Tuesday 22 August 2000 at 8.00pm at the Spinning Wheel Cafe.
In highlighting this event, EHS Gerry Cutmore explains, "Bats are the only true flying mammals. There are eight species of bat native to Ireland, each has its own signal. What they do have in common is their nocturnal habits, the fact that they hibernate, and their use of echo location. All who attend the course will have the opportunity to listen to the bats recording system using a special bat detector."
The course will commence with a talk and slide show - tea, coffee and sandwiches will be provided. A visit to a bat roost at dusk will follow - for the brave at heart!
All are welcome to attend but advanced booking is required. Children must be supervised at all times. Those who wish to attend should contact Michael Conway Environmental Educator at the Roe Valley Park, Tel: 028 77767532.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- The "Bat Night" is part of a series of summer events which seeks to give the general public first hand experience of local wildlife.
- All events are arranged by DOE Environment and Heritage Service at Roe Valley Country Park, 41 Dogleap Road, Limavady.
- For further media information please contact Debbie Lindsay, DOE Press Office Tel: 028 90540003