Although it isn't Rossendale it may be of interest. Just been round Entwistle Res and at 14:45, in sunshine, there was a bat flying over the wall at the outlet end. Watched it for a good 5 mins, 'til some gulls came over and it vanished into the trees. No idea of species, never seen one in broad daylight. Not very small, chestnut/reddish brown in colour. Must have been hungry!! Any ideas? Ina
Hi Ina, We once saw a Noctule Bat at Titchwell, Norfolk, which was hawking insects in broad daylight. This was a big strong flying bat and in this instance flew quite high in the air. I know Noctules are chestnut coloured but hopefully someone with more knowledge can confirm. Regards, David.
Yes, I've seen Noctule in N. Wales some years ago. It also was active well before the usual time you see Pipistrelles. My impression was of it being similar in size to Swift. Other than that, I'm not sure what other bats we'd be likely to see locally.
Thanks David and Jim. Noctule it is then!! My first thought for a split second was Swift, though a little smaller, and if the colour's right...problem solved. It was bigger than the Pipistrelles that 'bat' around my house I'm sure. Thanks again. Ina
