VOLUNTEERS are needed to count bats in churches across Dorset.
The Bats in Churches project is appealing for people to come forward and help in a nationwide effort for the final year of the National Bats in Churches survey.
Bats have been associated with churches for decades.
Thirteen species have been recorded in churches including one of the rarest mammals in Britain.
It is believed 60 per cent of pre-16th century churches in England house bat roosts, but that figure could even be higher.
Read more: Farming practices could boost bat numbers in Dorset, study finds
Last year the survey discovered bats in just over half of the 219 churches surveyed.
Claire Boothby, training and surveys officer at Bats in Churches, said: “If you have an interest in churches, bats or both I'd encourage you to get involved.
“The surveys are something that everyone can do, even if you are new to the world of bat surveys.
‘The records will be key in telling us more about bats’ use of churches, including answering questions such as how many churches in England house bat roosts and which factors affect the likelihood of bats using these cherished buildings.
“The findings will go towards guidance documents to help churches and conserve both the buildings and the bats.”
To sign up, visit https://batsinchurches.org.uk/volunteer-bat-survey/
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