What appeared to be a small flock of swallows over the head of the clough on further scrutiny proved to be at least 11 bats. They were feeding higher than I've seen bats feed before probably 100ft up, well above the outline of Cribden and way above the tree tops. This feeding continued for 20 mins or so with numbers diminishing as dusk approached or maybe they were just feeding at a lower level against the dark background of the fields. Not too sure on species but they didn't look to be any different in jizz from Pipestrelles, the flight was fast with very sharp turns and twists. What makes this sighting unusual for me is that I've never seen more than two bats together at any one time despite many years of fishing and birdwatching. If anybody is interested in a visit then please contact me and any comments would be welcome especially regarding other resident species in Rossendale.
