Be a bat volunteer, beats hanging around

A study is being carried out to safeguard bats in York, and all 16 species in the UK are protected by law, although their populations are vulnerable due to pollution, persecution and loss of habitat.

Recording the distribution of the nocturnal creatures is helping scientists to model and predict their habitat requirements.

York University biologist Nancy Irwin has helped to organise a series of workshops to train community volunteers to collect data to monitor long-term trends. Workshops will take place on June 5, June 19 and July 3.

Philip Biggs, of the Bat Conservation Trust, will be among the experts training volunteers to use a range of surveying methods.

Anyone who wants to take part in the workshops can register at www.yorkbatgroup.eventbrite.com