Primo Presetnik
Bat species and conservation issues in the castle Grad na Goričkem (NE Slovenia)
The castle Grad na Goričkem lies on the western hills surrounding the
Pannonian basin. Its cellars provide a unique underground habitat, which is
rare in the surrounding region. The cellars were found to shelter highly
lithophilic species Miniopterus schreibersii, Rhinolophus hipposideros, Myotis
myotis and occasionally at least four additional bat species. Approximately one
hundred individuals of Miniopterus schreibersii use the cellars from spring to
autumn. During winter Rhinolophus hipposideros is the most abundant bat
species. Myotis myotis uses the castle mostly as autumnal mating quarters. The
most serious threat to these bats, besides vandalism, is an imminent collapse
of the castle wing above the cellars with the highest concentration of bats.
Some conservation measures are already being implemented. The crucial element
of the conservation of the bats, with special emphasis on Miniopterus
schreibersii, is the correct renovation of the castle's cellars.
Mammalia, Walter de Gruyter
Print ISSN: 0025-1461
Volume: 68, 12/2004
Pages: 427 - 435
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