Anew bat learning hub has been launched by the Limestone Coast Landscape Board to educate people about the Southern Bent-wing Bat – which has been named Mammal of the Year.

The portal provides information, news and interactive activities for land managers, conservationists, bat enthusiasts, community members and their families.

LC Landscape Board Habitat Conservation Team Leader Mark de Jong said increasing awareness of bats within the Limestone Coast would support the recovery of the rapid decline of this endangered species. 

“This community hub provides opportunities for conversations, informative sessions, access to expert ecologists and offers bat related competitions and prizes,” he said.

“Bats provide important environmental services to our landscapes.

“Bats eat large volumes of insects, including insects that are pests to primary production. By providing habitat corridors, we can ensure bats have shelter and rest places during their busy nights of foraging amongst crops and fields for food.” 

Mr de Jong said the Limestone Coast was home to 14 different bat species.

“Generally they go unnoticed although are occasionally seen roosting in outdoor sheds, roof eaves, woodpiles and flying under street lamps,” he said.