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Evaluation and Demonstration of Autonomous Bat Dataloggers and Bat Detectors for Long-Term Monitoring of Roost Activity

Rey Farve, Project Leader

Plan of Action

In partnership with the Lincoln National Forest, we (Technology & Development Program) plan to perform a demonstration deployment of the Bat Logger II and the AnaBat Roost Logger in caves on the Lincoln National Forest. To verify ultrasonic detections recorded on the bat dataloggers, we will simultaneously deploy two bat detectors (the Petterson D500X and SM2BAT+) in the locations of the bat dataloggers.

The intent of the deployment is demonstrate whether (or not) bat dataloggers can be an autonomous (unattended), cost-effective tool to accurately monitor bat activity over long periods (i.e., months) in caves and roosts. The deployments are expected to occur over a 2-year period and be conducted in various seasons. Bat dataloggers and detectors will be co-located at deployment sites to compare operational capabilities and performance. We are especially interested in comparing the devices for: ease of use, programmability, weather resistance, data-storage capacity, power requirements, cost, and accuracy in ultrasonic signal collection.

To assist us in the proper deployment of the devices and the analysis of bioacoustic data collected, we have contracted with Debbie Buecher (Buecher Biological Consulting), a bat biologist with extensive experience in surveying and bioacoustic monitoring in the southwest. Also, Dave Plummer, electrical technician for the Missoula Technology and Development Center, is assisting in the electronic tasks associated with the deployment.