zeit.de
Warmer Winters Spur Earlier Bat Emergence in Schleswig-Holstein
Tens of thousands of bats hibernate in Schleswig-Holstein, with almost 12,300 counted in 98 locations this winter; warmer winters cause earlier emergence from hibernation, impacting food availability; conservation efforts show population growth, but maintaining species diversity is key.
- How do milder winters affect bat hibernation patterns, and what are the implications for their food sources and survival?
- Warmer-than-average winters are noticeably impacting bat activity, particularly in forest bats like the greater noctule, which are leaving their winter quarters earlier. The bats' ability to conserve energy allows them to survive with limited food availability early in the season; however, temperature drops can cause them to return to hibernation.
- What is the current status of bat populations in Schleswig-Holstein, and what are the immediate impacts of recent milder winters on their behavior?
- In Schleswig-Holstein, almost 12,300 bats were counted this winter across 98 hibernation sites, including the Kalkberghöhle cave where tens of thousands hibernate. The bats' departure from hibernation began in early March and will continue until mid-April, with some species emerging later. Mild winters cause some species to leave hibernation earlier.
- What long-term conservation measures are necessary to ensure the survival of bat populations in Schleswig-Holstein, given the observed trends and challenges?
- Maintaining bat species diversity is crucial for their future. Though the exact number in the Kalkberghöhle is unknown due to inaccessibility, over 33,000 bats were counted exiting last year using light barriers. The ongoing success of conservation efforts in Schleswig-Holstein is reflected in the increasing bat population.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a generally positive framing of the situation, highlighting the increasing bat population and successful conservation efforts in Schleswig-Holstein. The focus on the awakening of the bats and their increasing numbers creates an optimistic narrative. While this is positive, a balanced perspective encompassing potential threats would be beneficial.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the awakening of bats in Schleswig-Holstein and doesn't discuss potential threats to bat populations or conservation challenges beyond mentioning the importance of preserving biodiversity. Further information on potential threats (habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change impacts beyond milder winters) would improve the article's completeness. Omitting these aspects might lead readers to underestimate the complexity of bat conservation.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article reports an increase in the bat population in Schleswig-Holstein, indicating success in conservation efforts. This directly contributes to the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystems, aligning with SDG 15 (Life on Land) which aims to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.