Scientists Caught a Rare Bat in Belarus
This species has practically disappeared in Western Europe.
Photo: Pripyatsky National Park
Several species of rare bats have been recorded in the "Pripyatsky" National Park. To observe them, modern ultrasonic detectors were used, the reserve reported.
During the field season, over 18 thousand echolocation signals were recorded. Each bat species has its own frequency characteristics for its signals.
Scientists catch bats using special mist nets, which are safe for the animals.
Currently, 10 species of bats out of the 19 found in Belarus have been confirmed to live in the national park.
Specialists encountered three unique species from the Red Book: the European barbastelle, the lesser noctule, and Brandt's myotis.
Photo: Pripyatsky National Park
The barbastelle is a very rare species that has practically disappeared in Western Europe, as it requires special living conditions: old, minimally disturbed forests with many hollow trees and peeling bark. The national park happens to have such conditions.