Bat species and conservation issues in the castle Grad na Goričkem (NE Slovenia)
2004
Presetnik, Primož
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.
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