Bat species and conservation issues in the castle Grad na Goričkem (NE Slovenia)

Abstract

The castle Grad na Goričkem lies on the western hills surrounding the Pannonian basin. Its cellars provide a unique underground habitat, which is rare in the surrounding region. The cellars were found to shelter highly lithophilic speciesMiniopterus schreibersii,Rhinolophus hipposideros,Myotis myotisand occasionally at least four additional bat species. Approximately one hundred individuals ofMiniopterus schreibersiiuse the cellars from spring to autumn. During winterRhinolophus hipposiderosis the most abundant bat species.Myotis myotisuses the castle mostly as autumnal mating quarters. The most serious threat to these bats, besides vandalism, is an imminent collapse of the castle wing above the cellars with the highest concentration of bats. Some conservation measures are already being implemented. The crucial element of the conservation of the bats, with special emphasis onMiniopterus schreibersii, is the correct renovation of the castle's cellars.