Moorlands bats and moths under the microscope

Join the Friends of Cecilly Brook and Hales Hall Pool later this month to uncover more about the incredible lives of bats.

The event, on Saturday 26 August, will involve a short talk on bats followed by a walk with bat detectors to discover just what's out there. There's also the chance to explore what's been attracted to the moth trap.

And with eight of the 18 UK species of bat being found in Staffordshire and over 2,500 UK moth species there should be plenty to see.

You may be fortunate enough to spot Common Pipistrelle bats which weigh only 3-8 grams, eat 3,000 insects a night and live for up to 18 years. And with moths coming in an amazing variety of shapes, sizes and colours the moth trap might attract anything from the magnificent hawk moths, which are bigger than most butterflies, to the delicate micro-moths.

Councillor Mike Bowen, cabinet member for parks and countryside at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, said: "There's an astonishing variety of wildlife living in the Staffordshire Moorlands and exciting events such as this make discovering more about what's on our doorstep an adventure everyone can enjoy.

"The Friends of Cecilly Brook do a terrific job of caring for the natural environment and making sure the flora and fauna of the Moorlands is preserved for future generations. I hope everyone who joins them on the evening has a wonderful time."

Anyone wishing to take part is asked to meet outside South Moorlands Leisure Centre, Allen Street, Cheadle, ST10 1HJ for 8.30pm on 26 August. Participants are advised to bring warm, waterproof clothing and a torch.