The Bernwood Population of Bechstein's Bats: A Non-Technical Summary of the Evidence.
Abstract
A single male Bechstein's bat (Myotis bechsteinii), one of the UK's rarest bat species, recorded in 2009 in south Buckinghamshire represented the first record for the county. Surveys in the Bernwood area during 2010 confirmed the county's first breeding population and led to significant research and field surveys that were completed between 2011 and 2022. This report presents subsequent data on the use of the Bernwood area by Bechstein's bats as well as the importance of this area for the species. Moreover, the significance of this Bechstein's bat population to the future of the species in the UK is discussed. Surveys between 2010 and 2022 have identified 3 breeding colonies within designated Sites of Special Scientific Interests (SSSIs) and additional roosts in surrounding woodlands. The Bernwood population, estimated at 300 individuals, represents 1.4% of England's Bechstein's bat population and is one of the largest known in the country. These bats rely on old-growth deciduous woodlands and connected habitats for roosting and foraging, demonstrating the importance of the entire landscape for their conservation. Despite the stable population, genetic isolation and habitat threats from development and climate change pose risks. Future planning must prioritize habitat connectivity and protection to ensure the population's resilience.
Key words
- wildlife conservation
- wildlife management
- population density
- woodlands
- surveys
- landscape conservation
- habitat destruction
- new geographic records
- geographical distribution
- population distribution
- population dynamics
- habitats
- habitat suitability
- genetic diversity
- inbreeding
- animal behaviour
- reproductive behaviour
- reproductive efficiency
- foraging
- habitat fragmentation
- land management
- climate change
- habitat corridors
- habitat management
- land use