Bat Netting, Surveys & Monitoring
Wildlife Specialists employs Qualified Indiana Bat Surveyors who are qualified in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, and New York. We have also acquired a new federal Indiana Bat permit giving us qualification throughout the entire range of the Indiana Bat.
Services Include:
- Bat Acoustical Surveys: Using the most advanced sensors and analysis software, we provide both remote and manned bat monitoring systems. In most cases, our experts are able to analyze recorded bat calls to the species level. We have integrated sensors from Binary Acoustic Technologies into our system to provide the highest quality recording. Our systems are self-sustained with solar panels and batteries. In addition, where cellular coverage exists, we have remote data download capabilities that send data files directly to our ftp site. This allows us to monitor the functioning of the system and reduces expensive field trips by technicians to retrieve data.
- Mist-Netting Surveys: We have over 35 years of combined mist-netting experience in the forests of eastern United States with the ability to definitively identify all species. Our single-, double- and triple-high canopy mist nets allow us to conduct these surveys in nearly any situation and habitat. We can also provide qualified expertise for threatened and endangered species when requested.
- Radio-telemetry: Our staff are equipped to capture and tag bats with radio transmitters in order to locate foraging or roosting areas and document habitat use.
- Hibernacula Surveys: Our field experts conduct cave and mine surveys using mist-nets, harp traps, or walk-through visual surveys. We provide these services to generate population counts and survey for rare or endangered species. We have U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service certified Qualifed Indiana Bat Surveyors on staff.
- Mortality Surveys: In addition to our other services, we conduct on-the-ground bat mortality searches associated with utility towers and commercial wind turbines.
- Analysis and Reporting: Upon completion of field assessments, we provide our clients with reports designed to meet their specific needs. In most cases, reports include summary charts and GIS-generated maps.
- Agency Negotiation and Communication: Our professionals have good working relationships with the regulatory agency staff with whom we are constantly communicating, and are aware of specific survey and management requirements associated with conflicts to individual species.