Free bat conservation event to take place in Mayo town

A free public event celebrating bats and promoting conservation efforts will take place in Castlebar later next week.

The event, titled “Discover Bats in County Mayo”, will be held at the TF Royal Hotel on Thursday, April 16 at 7pm, offering attendees a chance to learn more about one of Ireland’s most misunderstood mammals.

Organised by Bat Conservation Ireland and the Mayo Bat Group, and supported by Mayo County Council’s Biodiversity Office, the event aims to raise awareness of the important role bats play in the ecosystem.

The evening will feature an educational talk on bat species found in Mayo, as well as the work being carried out locally to protect them.

Karen Healy, Projects Co-Ordinator with Bat Conservation Ireland, said the event is an opportunity to connect people with nature.

“Bats are an essential part of our natural heritage, yet they are frequently misunderstood,” she said. “This event is about inspiring curiosity and encouraging communities to take part in protecting local bat populations and their habitats.”

READ MORE: Mayo judge issues convictions and fines for wildlife crime

She also highlighted the contribution of volunteers involved in bat conservation, noting that local bat groups play a vital role in surveys, public engagement and even rescuing injured animals.

Mayo Biodiversity Officer Sheila Murphy said the county provides ideal habitats for bats, from hedgerows and woodlands to rivers and lakes.

“This event aims to promote the importance of bats in our landscape and raise awareness of what we can do to help protect them,” she said.

The event is free to attend and open to all members of the public, with organisers encouraging anyone with an interest in wildlife or conservation to come along.

The initiative is supported through the National Parks and Wildlife Service Local Biodiversity Action Fund.

READ MORE: Are Mayo honeybees under threat?