Eaton Chalk Pit
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Condition (Natural England)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TG209064 | — | Unfavourable Recovering | 0.16 | 2014-05-23 |
Geology & landscape
Geological Feature: Cave / Cavern · Rock Type: Chalk
Landscape processes: Karst
Description
Description This site consists of a series of abandoned chalk mines that were probably excavated in the early part of the nineteenth century. The undisturbed tunnels are now used by various species of bat which hibernate underground during the winter months. The bats have been closely monitored for many years and the site forms an important research site for longterm studies in bat ecology. Nationally, bat populations have shown severe declines in recent years and are given special protection under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act. The tunnels are used principally by Daubenton’s Bat Myotis daubentonii, Natterer’s bat M. nattereri and brown long eared Bat Plecotus auritus. Up to 40 bats use the site with peak numbers occurring in January. A metal grille has been placed over the cave entrance to protect the bats from unauthorised interference. The surrounding woodland in the chalk pit influences the micro climate within the bat caves and thus forms an integral part of the interest of the site.
Species mentioned
Show the 2 species mentioned in the description, with red-list status| English name search for this in other sites |
Latin name search with Google |
IUCN / Red List | Type | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daubenton's bat | Myotis daubentonii | LC | bat | vespertillonidae |
| brown long-eared bat | Plecotus auritus | LC | bat | vespertillonidae |