Brilliant Bats! A wild event for young people on Ashdown Forest

Learn about the incredible biology of Bats, the only mammal capable of true flight, and their evolutionary history. Look at their adaptation to a nocturnal lifestyle and the fascinating array of feeding styles found across the world.
We will look at the species found in Sussex, which includes all 18 resident UK species, discussing their anatomy, distribution and population status. We will discuss survey techniques, specifically acoustic surveying and call identification.

We will then walk out around the Forest, with our bat detectors in hand, as we try to identify the bats on the wing.

Warm clothes, head torches and sturdy footwear recommended. A hot drink will be provided during the evening.

This is a free event. Donations to support the Weald to Waves initiative and Wild Futures programme will be welcome. Booking essential as numbers are limited.

Car park charges apply.

No dogs.

The event will be led by Ryan Greaves from the Weald to Waves initiative and supported by Ashdown Forest Education Team. Ryan Greaves is a Sussex-born Zoologist, a committee member of the Sussex Mammal Group and the long-time events coordinator for Sussex Bat Group. Having worked for Sussex Wildlife Trust for nearly 15 years he is now working for the Knepp Wildland Foundation. His new role focuses on managing all the education and youth training work happening at Knepp, and youth engagement opportunities along the Weald to Waves Corridor.