Rare bats found in mine buildings

Bats were found in mining chimneys, tunnels and kilns

Britain's rarest species of bat has been discovered in the lower Tamar Valley after a special investigation.

Seven other species of bat have also been found during a study which included the help of local cavers.

The study was carried out as part of the £5.8m Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project, aimed at opening up the valley to visitors.

Using tracking devices, investigators discovered the Greater and Lesser Horseshoe bats and Barbastelle bats.

Roosting sites

They are considered to be the rarest species in Britain.

Long eared and Pipistrelle bats were also found in old chimneys, lime kilns, ore shoots and tunnels around the valley.

More than 30 bat winter hibernation sites were found underground in mineshafts with the help of a team of local cavers.

The aim of the study was to identify and protect the roosting sites during building conservation works.

The Tamar Valley was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1995.

The heritage project's main aim is to ensure the valley's mining engine houses, water wheels, chimneys, mines and quaysides are looked after for people to enjoy.