- Be mindful of bats: Avoid exploring caves starting from autumn.
Currently, adventure-seekers can explore and traverse all the caves in Franconian Switzerland, relishing the chill. However, once autumn arrives, this enjoyment diminishes significantly - numerous caves nestled within the distinctive rock terrain surrounding Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Bayreuth are essential shelters for bats. It's crucial to preserve their peace during their winter slumber, and any intrusion is strictly prohibited during this period, from October 1st to at least March 31st. Apart from caves, some tunnels and cellars are also designated as winter retreats for bats.
"Batnight" on August 24th offers educational insights into bats across Germany. Various events and activities are dedicated to these nocturnal creatures, becoming active only at dusk.
Caves are popular among hikers and tourists
Nicole Meier, a bat expert at the Bavarian Nature Conservation Association (LBV) and the project coordinator for the lesser horseshoe bat, emphasizes the restrictions. Winter quarters for bats are off-limits from October 1st to March 31st. Due to the surge of local nature enthusiasts during the COVID-19 pandemic, trails in Franconian Switzerland are busier than ever, filled with hikers and tourists exploring the countless caves.
Meier advises caution. "Always consider: Every cave could be a winter quarters." Disturbances are undesirable, as bats slow down their metabolism during winter. Any detected sounds can trigger a metabolic surge, potentially depleting energy reserves ahead of winter's end. "Hence, it's advisable to avoid entering caves during winter." Alternative tourist caves are available that don't house wintering bats.
The Bavarian Association for Cave and Karst Research recommends postponing caving expeditions, rescues, and other activities to May through September, when the winter hibernation period has ended.
To raise awareness about bats and their winter hibernation, signs are posted at various caves - not all of which are as well-known as the one in Bad Segeberg, Schleswig-Holstein, hosting around 30,000 bats during winter. The limestone cave is then closed, and re-opens in spring and summer.
Germany is home to about 25 bat species
The status of bats in Germany is assessed by the Nature Conservation Union (Nabu), which asserts around 25 bat species inhabit the country. Regional differences are noteworthy, according to Uwe Hermanns, the Federal Committee on Bats spokesperson in Nabu. For example, forestry management varies in its consideration of bats and their habitats. Additionally, intensive agriculture and urban expansion affect insect populations, which are essential food sources for bats. Alternatively, appropriate habitats are scarce, and suitable nesting sites like window sills, cellars, or lofts are increasingly hard to find. Artificial lighting and wind turbines pose additional threats to bats.
Bats contribute significantly to the ecosystem by feeding on harmful insects, according to Hermanns.
Little Horseshoe Bat at risk in many states
Conservation efforts are vital for safeguarding these creatures. For instance, the last surviving colony of the Greater Horseshoe Bat in Germany resides in Hohenburg, Upper Palatinate, since the early 2000s. After stabilizing and growing, attempts are being made to discover another suitable habitat to further protect the species.
The Little Horseshoe Bat, whose weight barely reaches five grams, faces mounting challenges as suitable habitats dwindle, and many populations are in poor condition. Listed as endangered, it's already considered extinct in many German states. The LBV secured a property in Franconian Switzerland to establish targeted improvements for boosting the population's survival.
The Court of Justice might issue rulings regarding bat conservation during hibernation periods, as the preservation of these creatures and their habitats is a matter of environmental law. The Court of Justice could also provide guidance on enforcing restrictions in caves and other winter quarters, ensuring the protection of endangered bat species.
