Aerial Thermal Roost Mapping at Leighton Hospital

This summer, our team conducted an innovative three-night bat emergence survey at Leighton Hospital in Crewe. We used thermal drone imaging, daylight photography, and acoustic monitoring to pinpoint potential roost locations and identify areas of active bat movement on the hospital grounds. This forward-thinking method was necessary to prepare for thorough ground-based ecological assessments.

The Importance of Bat Surveys

Understanding bats requires careful surveying. Bats are essential to our ecosystems, aiding in pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal. Sadly, their numbers are dwindling, with a recent report indicating a 30% decline in several species across the UK, attributed to habitat loss and climate change. By conducting these surveys, we ensure bats can thrive and that any developmental projects adhere to environmental standards.

Methodology: A Blend of Technology and Expertise

Our approach at Leighton Hospital was thoughtfully considered, utilizing technology to improve both the accuracy and efficiency of our results.

Thermal Drone Imaging

Thermal drone imaging was a highlight of our survey. This technology detects the heat emitted by bats as they exit their roosts. By capturing thermal images from an aerial view, we successfully identified potential bat homes without disturbing their natural behavior. For example, on one night alone, we identified heat signatures in three distinct areas, suggesting active roosts.

Daylight Photography

Alongside thermal imaging, we employed daylight photography to document the buildings' structural features. This visual evidence helped us evaluate various sites for their suitability as bat roosts, significantly aiding our decision-making process.

Acoustic Monitoring

Acoustic monitoring was crucial. Specialized equipment allowed us to record the echolocation calls of bats, revealing their activity levels and species presence. We confirmed areas of high bat activity, with over 100 calls detected on the west side of the campus during the first two nights.

Findings: A Clear Picture of Bat Activity

Our survey results were significant. We identified nine buildings with varying potential for roosting. Each building's features indicated suitability, warranting further exploration. The acoustic monitoring revealed heavy bat activity on the west side during the first two nights. However, on Night 3, bat activity dropped significantly, likely due to the fuller moon, which is known to affect bat behavior—reducing their emergence by approximately 50%.

The Benefits of Drone-Assisted Surveys

Combining thermal imaging with acoustic mapping gave ecologists a clearer understanding of where to focus subsequent investigations. This approach not only enhanced efficiency but also minimized disturbances to wildlife, which is crucial for their conservation.

The use of drones marks an important shift in ecological surveys. Traditional ground-based methods can be time-consuming and disruptive. In contrast, drone-assisted techniques provide a quicker and more environmentally friendly way to locate bat habitats.

Looking Ahead: Advancing Ecological Assessments

The bat emergence survey at Leighton Hospital showcases how technology can transform ecological assessments. By integrating thermal imaging, daylight photography, and acoustic monitoring, our team collected detailed data on bat behaviors and potential roost sites.

As we progress, it's vital to continue adopting innovative methods that deepen our understanding of wildlife. The findings from this survey will guide future assessments and help protect bat populations in the region.

Embracing modern technology in ecological surveys not only streamlines our work but also builds a greater appreciation for nature. By exploring the connections between technology and ecology, we foster improved conservation efforts and a sustainable environment for all species.