Honiton Carers Support Group last met on Wednesday 12th January at the Methodist Church and enjoyed a lovely session learning about Bats

Winnie Cameron Introduced Ruth Worsley from East Devon AONB - Saving Special Species

Ruth gave a brief introduction of herself and what her job entails. She was visiting today to persuade all of us to like Bats, more specifically the Grey Long Eared Bat which is a rare species. These are the facts we learned today about these Bats.

They are a key Species in the Environment. They are the only Mammal that can fly. They are Nocturnal. They Hibernate in Winter. Eat Insects. There are 1400 species of bats in the world but only 17 species in the UK. A third of all Mammals are Bats.

There are 16 Species of Bats in Devon. Bats use their ears to find their prey by echo location. The Grey long Eared Bat is also known as the whispering Bat. It likes to eat Crane flies and to hunt in the meadows.

They roost/live in old barns, attics churches, caves and like a continuous route from where they roost to the meadows where it seeks its prey. Continuous routes usually follow streams and hedgerows in order to find their way. Lights confuse them.

The general consensus to protect the species is the need to create more meadows and habitat. As older buildings disappear it becomes necessary to provide Bat Boxes and to provide necessary roosts to encourage them.

If you come across an injured Bat please notify Devon Bat Rescue.

After Ruth finished, there were many questions for her, which she answered to everyone's satisfaction.

Win thanked Ruth for a very interesting and enlightening talk about Bats, which was much enjoyed by all, and everyone indicated their appreciation fully. Ruth was later presented with one of Stella Fords beautiful table decorations.

The usual Cuppa & cake followed with much enjoyment and chatting going on before we finished off with a well supplied raffle with some wonderful prizes.

Honiton Carers next meeting is at The Kitchen at Combe Garden Centre on Wednesday19th January 3 - 4.30 pm.

Honiton Carers meet every week. If you are a carer and would like to join us, please contact Winnie Cameron on [email protected] or phone 07974 636926 for further information. We would love to see you and guarantee you a warm welcome at all times.