When your project involves impacts to forested habitats, bats studies are often a necessary component of environmental diligence. Summit Ecological Consulting specializes in mist net, harp trap and acoustic surveys to determine presence/probable absence of listed bat species and species composition. We conduct radio-telemetry studies and foraging / home-range telemetry studies. We conduct long-term monitoring for pre- and post-construction wind facility compliance. We like bats.
Capture Surveys
Mosquitos. Humidity. Heat. Strange Noises. Banjo Music. Mist net and harp trap surveys for the Indiana and northern long-eared bats remain our most popular specialty service. Summit Ecological Consulting retains an endangered species recovery permit from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service allowing us to capture bats using physical capture techniques. Whether your project is 5 acres or 500 or a single cave, Summit Ecological Consulting has the experience and equipment to tackle your survey needs.
Acoustic Surveys
Sometimes mist net surveys are what the situation calls for. Sometimes acoustic surveys are needed. Unconventional sites, cost constraints, specific sampling requirements—whatever the reason, acoustic surveys are sometimes unavoidable and Summit Ecological Consulting has the experience to collect, organize, process, and vet dozens to thousands of vocalizations. From northern long-eared bats in Maine to Florida bonneted bats—we’ll go there.
Florida Bonneted Bat Surveys
Florida Bonneted Bats are listed as endangered by the USFWS, and are only known to exist in a handful of locations in a few counties in southern Florida. Acoustic surveys targeting this rare species remain the best and most cost-effective option to determine presence and we have the experience to conduct those surveys from Fort Myers to Miami.
Radio-Telemetry
We bag ‘em and then tag ‘em. Summit Ecological Consulting has the experience to not only track Indiana and northern long-eared bats back to roost trees, but orchestrate and analyze home range and foraging range telemetry studies.
Bat Conservation and Mitigation
Occasionally, impacts to listed bat species are unavoidable. Let us streamline your consultation process and draft conservation plans incorporating elements to avoid, minimize, and mitigate (and monitor!) impacts to listed bat species. We are very familiar with West Virginia’s “Indiana Bat Conservation Plans” or IBCPs and can have you through that process quickly and without stress.
