A number of surveys are needed as a single visit is unlikely to capture a complete picture of bat activity.
Surveys will include daytime surveys to complete preliminary roost assessments that will inform how they set up that evening. The ecologists will use specialist equipment such as thermal cameras, infra-red cameras and bat detectors from dusk and continue 1.5 to 2 hours from sunset.
The surveys will mostly take place on public land along the River Nith at 17 separate locations where the potential for bat activity is likely. The Whitesands Flood Protection Scheme area starts just north of the rowing club and extends as far south as Dock Park.
There may be times when surveyors need access to private gardens, land or greenspace to carry out these surveys. The council will contact the appropriate businesses and residents before survey work starts to explain what is required. Surveyors will carry ID badges and documentation with them at all times.
Follow-up surveys are planned for May, June and August. You may see the ecologists’ inspecting trees, buildings, and structures. This will involve tree climbing during May, so if you see them using ladders or ropes, please give them space.
Dumfries and Galloway Council is working with experts from Jacobs, to carry out the surveys.
For more information or updates, visit the Whitesands Project webpages, contact whitesandsproject@dumgal.gov.uk or call 030 33 33 3000. Sign up to our Whitesands newsletter to stay updated – you can read the last edition here.