New Bat Monitoring Scheme Launches in Holyford Woods

The project is being supported by funding held in trust by the Axe Vale & District Conservation Society.

Holyford Woods is already known for its rich bat life, with 12 different species previously recorded within the woodland. Among them are rare species such as the Bechstein’s bat and the barbastelle. In 2024, a juvenile barbastelle was successfully radio-tracked to a roost within the site - further underlining the importance of the woodland as a bat habitat.

Licensed monitoring started in September by District Ecologist Will Dommett and Nature Reserve Ranger Ben Morgan-Brown. The aim is to gather long-term data on which species are using the roost boxes, how frequently, and in what ways - information that can help guide future habitat management within the woodland and across the wider East Devon landscape.

To support a variety of bat species, the team have installed six different types of bat boxes, each catering to different roosting preferences. Some smaller, wooden boxes will suit crevice-dwelling bats like pipistrelles and barbastelles, while larger designs will accommodate cavity-dwelling species such as Bechstein’s, noctules, and possibly maternity colonies.

Looking ahead, the scheme could provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and training. Once established, it is hoped that other conservation groups and volunteers will be able to assist with box checks - offering hands-on experience for bat workers and volunteers across the region.

If successful, the project may also lay the groundwork for further research into East Devon’s bat populations and their habitat needs.

Lesley Clarke, Chair of the Axe Vale & District Conservation Society, said:"Axe Vale & District Conservation Society are delighted to have provided money from the Holyford Wood fund to help set up this bat box monitoring project. It is exactly the kind of work that the society supports, and we very much look forward to seeing the results for many years to come"