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Microbats
Microbats: Small Insect-Eating Wonders
Microbats, as their name suggests, are small bats ranging from about 4-10 centimetres in length. The smallest microbats weigh less than a 10-cent coin and can easily fit in the palm of your hand. Australia is home to approximately 86 species of bats, with only four of our bat species falling into the fruit bat category. Remarkably, microbats constitute nearly a quarter of Australia’s mammal diversity, and unfortunately, 35 of these species are currently listed as threatened.
In Sydney, around twenty species of microbats call the city home, making them the most common and diverse group of mammals still surviving in our urban environment. These tiny creatures play a crucial role as local pest controllers by primarily feeding on insects. To thrive, microbats require not only an abundant supply of insects but also access to clean water sources and suitable roosting habitats. Depending on the specific microbat species, suitable roosting sites may include tree hollows, caves, tunnels, bridges, culverts, crevices under bark, or even building eaves.
While some microbat species, like Gould’s Wattled Bat, are found throughout Sydney (you might spot them hunting insects around the lights at the Sydney Cricket Ground during an AFL night game), the highest diversity of microbat species exists in Sydney’s western suburbs. In Bayside, four species of microbats have been identified.
Threats to All Bats
Microbats face several threats that impact their survival:
- Loss of bushland: Urban development and habitat destruction reduce available roosting sites.
- Weed invasion: Invasive plant species can disrupt ecosystems and affect microbat habitats.
- Roost disturbance: Human activities near roosting areas can disturb microbats.
- Changed fire regimes: Altered fire patterns can impact their habitats
- Predators: Cats, rats, and possums pose risks to microbats.
- Light sensitivity: Some bats are sensitive to bright artificial lighting at night.
- Competition: Other animals, such as lorikeets, Indian mynahs, and feral honey bees, may compete for roosting sites.
- Noise: Microbats avoid noisy areas and roads.
- Water Pollution: Urban and agricultural runoff can contaminate waterways
How can you help microbats?
- Plant Native Species: Encourage insects by planting a variety of native plants in your garden.
- Avoid Insecticides: Refrain from using harmful chemicals that can affect microbat prey.
- Install Bat Nest Boxes: Consider putting up a bat nest box. You can obtain a free bat box from your local council or create your own. Contact your council at 1300 581 299 or email council@bayside.nsw.gov.au and ask to speak to the Environment Officer.
Microbats play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, and your efforts can contribute to their well-being. For more information, contact us on Call Council on 1300 581 299 or at council@bayside.nsw.gov.au and ask to speak to the Environmental Officer.
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