The nights are fair drawin’ in and with it comes the opportunity for bat spotting.
High Life Highland’s Countryside Rangers are inviting people to two opportunities to go bat spotting – a free walk around Ness Island on Thursday, September 30 and at the Old Spey Bridge in Grantown-on-Spey on Friday, October 1.
Countryside Ranger John Orr said: “There are 17 different species of bats in the UK and about nine of those are tough enough to survive the Scottish Highlands.
“The Ness Islands are home to roughly five different types of bats and visitors will, hopefully, be able to see and hear the different types as these mammals munch on the midgies over the river.
“From 6.30pm there will be a short talk on bats at Inverness Botanic Gardens followed by a walk to the Ness Islands where we’ll use heterodyne detectors – better known as bat detectors – to try and find them.”
The event in Grantown starts at 7pm with Countryside Ranger Saranne Bish.
She said: “Bats are truly fascinating creatures and our only flying mammal and we’ll hopefully be able to watch them wheel and dive through the sky.
“We’ll find out what bats eat, where they live and other facts about these wonderful creatures as we wander through Grantown-on-Spey.”
Those taking part are urged to wrap up warm and bring a torch whilst children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Events are free but the Rangers rely on donations to help protect Highland wildlife and heritage.
Booking for both events is essential.
To book for Ness Island, click here, and to book for Grantown, click here.
