THIS September people in Devon are invited to celebrate bats at a range of online events. A ‘Virtual Festival’ is being organised by the Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project.

The Bat Project is a five year partnership project of 18 organisations led by Devon Wildlife Trust, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as other funders.

Working alongside local farmers and communities, the aim is to secure a future for Devon’s population of endangered greater horseshoe bats.

Events for 2020 include the Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project Conference, a series of online ‘Chats about Bats’, and a range of events organised by project partner Bat Conservation Trust.

This year people are also encouraged to ‘Go Bats’ and get involved in bat conservation by taking simple measures in their gardens and local spaces. Activities will be suggested for each day of the Festival, with links to some brilliant resources.

Anna David, team leader of the Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project, said: ‘Welcome to the Bat Project’s fifth Bat Festival! Devon is such an important place for the greater horseshoe bat. About a third of the UK’s population of this special mammal live here, making Devon a stronghold for them.

‘The Bat Festival is a brilliant opportunity for people to learn about and celebrate our bats. We really need your help as greater horseshoe bats have declined by over 90% in the last 100 years.

‘This year, we look forward to getting everyone inspired to do their bit for bats by joining our online events and making a practical difference by taking part ‘Go Bats’ too!’

Further details and booking information can be found atwww.devonbatproject.org/events.