Blind as a bat? debunking bat myths
We’ve all found ourselves looking in the fridge for something, only to call someone to spot it instantly and mutter “Blind as a bat” under their breath. This long-standing bat myth has shaped public perception for years, but modern research tells a very different story. All 10 bat species found in Scotland have excellent eyesight.
“For as the eyes of bats are to the blaze of day, so is the reason in our soul to the things which are by nature most evident of all” - Aristotle
The origins of “blind as a bat” can be traced back over 2000 years to Aristotle, but we now know their eyes contain both rod and cone cells. These allow them to see in colour and detect movement effectively, and they are particularly well adapted to low light conditions. Some bats have even been found to see ultraviolet light, a range of light outside of human vision.
As well as their excellent vision, bats use echolocation for navigating and hunting. They create detailed ‘sound maps’ of their environment, and use their echolocation to zero in on airborne insect prey.
Bats Eyes & Human Development
In urban areas, bats can be seen flitting around by streetlights. This can be misinterpreted as them being attracted to the lights, but there is significant research that shows the opposite is true. Bats avoid artificial lighting, and poorly positioned lights by roost entrances can stop bats leaving to hunt at night with devastating (and often fatal) consequences for the bats.
When developing a property or making changes to your own home, considering artificial lighting and its impact on bats is a significant consideration. Having lights on timers, ensuring they are not pointing up, or only having them in specific areas are just some of the ways we can ensure we have the light we need and the bats have the dark skies they need.
For more information on bat surveys and conservation in Scotland, explore our other blog posts or contact our team of bat specialists.
If you need a bat survey (or think you might) get in touch with our team of specialist ecologists!
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