Got questions, thoughts, or curious bat queries? Text us—we’d love to hear from you!

S6Ep58 In this episode of BatChat, Steve sits down with Phil Atkin, the creator of a groundbreaking bat detector that’s making waves in the bat conservation community. Using the Raspberry Pi Pico computer, Phil has designed a cost-effective way for people to build their own bat detectors—for just £15!

Join us as we delve into:
🦇 How Phil’s love for bats sparked his innovative journey.
💻 The tech behind the Raspberry Pi Pico bat detector.
💡 Why affordable bat detectors are a game-changer for citizen science.
🌍 How this innovation is advancing the field of bat conservation.

Whether you're a seasoned bat enthusiast or just curious about how technology can support wildlife conservation, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of tech and nature.

🔗 Resources and Links:

• Learn how to build your own Raspberry Pi Pico bat detector.
• Find out more about Phil Atkin’s work and projects.
• Prefer to buy one ready made? Find them here.
• Explore how to get involved in bat conservation.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with a true innovator!

Got questions, thoughts, or curious bat queries? Text us—we’d love to hear from you!

Support the show

Please leave us a review or star rating if your podcast app allows it because it helps us to reach a wider audience so that we can spread the word about how great bats are. How to write a podcast review (and why you should).

Got a story to share with us? Please get in touch via comms@bats.org.uk

Bats are magical but misunderstood. At BCT our vision is a world rich in wildlife where bats and people thrive together. Action to protect & conserve bats is having a positive impact on bat populations in the UK. We would not be able to continue our work to protect bats & their habitats without your contribution so if you can please donate. We need your support now more than ever: www.bats.org.uk/donate Thank you!

Got questions, thoughts, or curious bat queries? Text us—we’d love to hear from you!

Step into the nocturnal world of the Knapp and Papermill Reserve with the Worcestershire Bat Group! In this immersive field recording, join us for a unique bat walk through the varied habitats of this Worcestershire Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve.

This episode captures a real-time adventure as we explore the reserve at night, listening in on bat detectors and identifying an impressive array of bat species, including common and soprano pipistrelles, Daubenton's, noctule, barbastelle, serotine, and a lesser horseshoe bat roost hidden within the old papermill building.

Along the way, we chat with dedicated members of the Worcestershire Bat Group, uncovering their stories on how they got involved with bat conservation and learning about the essential work they do to protect these fascinating creatures. Through their insights, you’ll get a glimpse into the group's efforts, from habitat preservation to public engagement.

Tune in to experience the thrill of bat detection firsthand and discover the diversity of life that comes alive at night in one of Worcestershire’s most treasured reserves!

The Knapp and Papermill Nature Reserve
Worcestershire Bat Group
Discover more about bat detectors

Got questions, thoughts, or curious bat queries? Text us—we’d love to hear from you!

Support the show

Please leave us a review or star rating if your podcast app allows it because it helps us to reach a wider audience so that we can spread the word about how great bats are. How to write a podcast review (and why you should).

Got a story to share with us? Please get in touch via comms@bats.org.uk

Bats are magical but misunderstood. At BCT our vision is a world rich in wildlife where bats and people thrive together. Action to protect & conserve bats is having a positive impact on bat populations in the UK. We would not be able to continue our work to protect bats & their habitats without your contribution so if you can please donate. We need your support now more than ever: www.bats.org.uk/donate Thank you!

Got questions, thoughts, or curious bat queries? Text us—we’d love to hear from you!

S6E56 We’re back with a brand new series! At the 2024 National Bat Conference at the University of Reading, zoologist and wildlife TV presenter Megan McCubbin joined us to chair a thought-provoking debate on ethical conservation. In between sessions, Megan sat down with Steve to chat about her career, her encounters with bats, and her involvement in the Restore Nature Now march earlier this summer.

Plus, we’ll bring you a couple of key updates from regional bat conservation activities over the summer. Then, back to Megan, who shares a conversation with Shirley Thompson, editor of Young Batworker magazine, on the critical role of the next generation in bat conservation. Tune in for these insights and more!

8 out of 10 bats
Toilet block shock as lesser horseshoe found in Derbyshire
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Bechstein's fundraising

Got questions, thoughts, or curious bat queries? Text us—we’d love to hear from you!

Support the show

Please leave us a review or star rating if your podcast app allows it because it helps us to reach a wider audience so that we can spread the word about how great bats are. How to write a podcast review (and why you should).

Got a story to share with us? Please get in touch via comms@bats.org.uk

Bats are magical but misunderstood. At BCT our vision is a world rich in wildlife where bats and people thrive together. Action to protect & conserve bats is having a positive impact on bat populations in the UK. We would not be able to continue our work to protect bats & their habitats without your contribution so if you can please donate. We need your support now more than ever: www.bats.org.uk/donate Thank you!