In the heart of the Aveyron department, in France, the small municipality of Saint-Geniez-d’lt has chosen to temporarily close a historic chapel. The reason? Accommodate a record colony of larger horse rapid bats in peace (Grand Rhinolophe), a species protected at national and European level.
The closing period, which runs from April to September, coincides with the reproductive season of these night mammals. In this delicate phase, any disorder can compromise the survival of the children, especially considering that the species generates only one litter per year.
In recent years, the populations of Grand Rhinolophe have drastically decreased in Europe. The main causes include loss of habitat, intensive use of human pesticides and interference in resting places. This species plays a crucial role in the natural containment of insect invasions, contributing to the health of agricultural and forestry areas.
Technological monitoring and collaboration
To ensure effective protection, the chapel has been equipped with surveillance cameras and monitoring systems that allow you to observe animals without disturbing them. The activities are coordinated with the Ligue de Protection des Oiseux (LPO) and the Regional Natural Park of the ABRAC, which supervise the conditions of the refuge and take care of maintenance.
Thanks to these measures, the colony has gone from the approximately 400 adult specimens of the years prior to a record of 960 individuals. A positive sign that confirms the effectiveness of the intervention and strengthens the idea that responsible tourism can coexist with the conservation of nature.
Even if the masses are not celebrated, the Capella remains a place of historical and tourist interest. For visitors, a virtual visit was created accessible via QR code, as well as a small internal observation space that does not interfere with the colony.
This initiative shows how a small municipality can combine environmental protection and cultural enhancement, offering a replicable example for other realities that face similar challenges. Protecting bats also means protecting the ecological balance that supports the entire territory.
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