Bat & Barn Owl Nights
Popular Bat and Barn Owl nights return to WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre this summer. Every Friday in August (10th, 17th, 24th & 31st) join our reserve team and bat expert for this unique experience.
The evening starts at 8pm until 11pm, with a walk out on the Marsh to search for barn owls as they hunt across the reserve. When the sun goes down, a local bat expert will teach you how to use bat detectors to track these fascinating flying mammals as you venture back to the building, getting a glimpse of the creatures that come out after dark on the reserve.
Through surveys, Martin Mere has identified the presence of five different bat species using the
site including; Soprano Pipistrelle, Common pipistrelle, Noclule, Daubentons and Brown Long eared Bats. The specialist detectors are designed to amplify the sound of bats so that you can identify where they are and get a better look at them.
You will be led over rough terrain in areas that are usually out of bounds to the public and the distance covered is approximately three miles. You are advised to dress warmly, with appropriate footwear for the outdoors.
Reserve Manager Tom Clare said: “The Bat and Barn Owl nights, provide a unique opportunity to search for barn owls in the wild and use a bat detector to hear enchanting bat sounds. Early evening is a great time to spot barn owls hunting over the reserve and the bat walks are a fascinating experience.”
Tickets are £14 per person. Places are limited for this experience and must be booked in advance. Book online today by visiting wwt.org.uk/martinmere and clicking on events.
WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 9.30am to 6pm and parking is free of charge. Situated off the A59, it is signposted from the M61, M58 and M6. The Centre is also accessible via the Southport to Manchester and the Liverpool to Preston line by train from Burscough Rail Stations. Visit the web site http://www.wwt.org.uk/martinmere/ to find out what’s on all year round at Martin Mere and the other eight WWT Wetland Centres.
