Bats in the Pingle

During the last few weeks Coningsby Pingle Local Nature Reserve has had a variety of visitors who have walked the paths around the ponds, fed the ever eager ducks and maybe enjoyed a picnic.
There was unfortunately a “downed” bat which was rescued by Helen Scarborough.
The tiny male Pipistrelle bat was so hungry he ate over 20 mealworms the first night in captivity! Hopefully he will soon be up to weight and ready for release.
The Pipistrelle is the most common bat in Britain with an average body span of 3.5 cm, a wing span of 19.25 cm and weight of 3.8 grams.
They emerge from their roosts relatively early during the evening compared to other bats and return to their roost after a couple of hours after hunting for small moths, gnats and other small insects. They may emerge again later for another feed and a Pipistrelle may consume up to 3,000 insects in one night!
They are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act.
The next event at the Pingle will be the 9th annual Drawing Competition, part of the National Big Draw. This will be on 11th October from 10.00am until midday and is open to all age groups.
Prizes will be awarded to children and local artist Christine Pengelly will be there for advice and assistance.
The Campaign for Drawing started 9 years ago and is held in a wide variety of places across the country, the aim is for people to enjoy drawing and sketching while observing what is around them. www.thebigdraw.org.uk
Anyone interested in the Pingle, or who would like to help, can ring Jean 01526 342022

,