Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT) and Manx Bat Group (MBG) have pledged to work more closely in the conservation of bats.

The two groups have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) which means they will work together in conserving bats and their habitats, public education and helping achieve the goals of the Isle of Man Biosphere.

Leigh Morris, chief executive officer of the MWT, said: ’I’m delighted.

’The conservation of bats in the Isle of Man is extremely important and is something MWT are constantly involved with, particularly with our ecological surveys.

’We are looking forward to knowledge and data sharing with MBG and potential joint projects together.’

Nick Pinder, the MBG chair, said: ’The MBG are very pleased that their relationship with MWT is to be deepened by, after all, we have similar aims, to look after our wildlife heritage.

’I am sure that the MoU will lead to greater collaborative working between the two organisations at a time when the Bat Group in particular is seeking more volunteers to assist with its extensive programme of surveying and monitoring the various bat species on the island.’

Mr Pinder stressed how exciting this partnership was.

’These are exciting times in the bat world with recent discoveries including two species new to the Manx list of bats and new tools to enable members to get closer to understanding our bats,’ he said.

The island is home to seven species of bat which are all protected by law after the bat population declined.

Bat ’hotspots’ include Silverdale Glen, Port Soderick, Summerhill Glen and Onchan Wetlands.