Big turnout for bat walk in Tullamore

Despite heavy rain showers at the outset, more than 50 people gathered in Tullamore Town Park yesterday (Wednesday) evening for a special Bat Walk hosted by Offaly County Council in collaboration with Offaly Bat Group and Tullamore Tidy Towns as part of National Hedgerow Week.

The evening began with an engaging talk from bat expert Anna Collins, who dispelled myths and shared insights into bat ecology and conservation, as well as displaying preserved specimens to help the audience appreciate the fascinating diversity of these nocturnal creatures.

As the skies cleared, participants were treated to a wonderful display of bat activity both in the park and along the Tullamore River, where several species were observed feeding at dusk.

Speaking after the event, Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, said: "We were delighted to see such a strong turnout despite the weather. Events like this highlight not only the importance of bats as part of our local biodiversity, but also the vital role hedgerows, riverbanks and green spaces play in supporting wildlife."

National Hedgerow Week, led by Teagasc and the Heritage Council, celebrates the ecological and cultural importance of hedgerows across Ireland, and encourages communities to engage with the nature on their doorstep.