BAT-COMPATIBLE CLOSURES OF ABANDONED UNDERGROUND MINES IN NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM UNITS

Abstract

Abstrack Because bat habitat is threatened by increased urban development deforestation%and exploitation of cav~ abandoned minca have become critical to the survival of numerous bat species. To date the National Park Sexvice has placed 71 bat-compatible closures in 11 parks. Habitat surveys for bats and other species are an integral part of the abandoned mine inventory process. When sumeys outside mines slated for closure reveal potential habitat qualified wildlife biologists accompanied by experienced abandoned mine safety personnel conduct internal surveys. Severrdinternal sumeys are often useful to determine various species using amine for different purposes through the seasons of the year. Once the determination is made that a mine slated for closure merits habitat preiservatioq gates are designed to suit the specific needs of resident species. Construction takes place in a season when the mine is uninhabite~ or at a time and in a manner that will cause the least disturbance. The National Park Servk and Bat Conservation International recently developed an interpretive warning sign which attempts to prevent vandalism of bat gates by educating the public on the potential hazards tilde the mine, the value of bats in ecosystems, and the importana of bat conservation efforts. These signs are available through Bat Conservation International.