Failt erriu!
Welcome to the Manx Bat Group website – the place for all things batty on the Isle of Man. The MBG brings together volunteers from across the Isle of Man interested in the conservation of Manx bats. We are a registered charity (no. 443) and are a Partner Member of the Bat Conservation Trust.
Need urgent help with an injured or grounded bat?
What does the Bat Group do?
- Regular meetings on bat-related topics and field visits in summer.
- Bat walks throughout the summer to see bats around the Island.
- Bat surveys of properties subject to planning applications.
- Advice and information about Manx bats.
- Database of bat and roost records for the Island.
- Care and release of injured and grounded bats.
- Bat awareness-raising and education events.
Bat walks
Each summer we run a programme of bat-spotting walks, some of which are open to members of the public. We are also happy to arrange bat walks with community groups, organisations and businesses.
Bat care and rescue
If you find a grounded or injured bat, our trained volunteers will attend to rescue the bat, or provide advice on what you should do. We also provide care for grounded and injured bats while they recover, then release them back into the wild.
Practical action
Our programme of activities usually includes some practical action to help with the conservation of Manx bats, for example conducting bat box making workshops with the public or community groups and giving advice on where to site them.
Information on bats
We set up stalls at public events such as the annual agricultural shows and Tynwald Day Fair to help educate people about bats. We always get asked lots of interesting questions! We also have a fundraising shop where you can buy all sorts of bat goodies. And people tell us about their bat sightings.
Have you seen bats or a bat roost? Tell us about it by completing our record form.
Bat surveys
We conduct surveys to help with bat conservation, for example by identifying potential bat roost sites. We can also provide cost-effective bat surveys in connection with planning applications.
Activities
We run batty activities for young people, including bat walks, quizzes and talks. If you’d like the Manx Bat Group to visit your group, please get in touch. For example, we’ve worked with Cubs, Brownies, libraries, youth groups and the Manx Wildlife Trust.