Cheddar Gorge Bat Caves with Louis Pearson

Greater horseshoe bat

Louis Pearson, Principal Ecologist at Digg & Co., has been deeply involved in the ecological management and conservation efforts at Cheddar Gorge for the past three years.

Situated within the breathtaking landscapes of the Mendip Hills (see below) and under the careful stewardship of the Longleat Estate, Cheddar Gorge stands as a sanctuary for a rich and diverse array of wildlife. Among its inhabitants are dormice populations to species-rich calcareous grasslands with rare endemic species like the white beam shrub (Sorbos cheddarensis) and a substantial population of greater horseshoe bats (see above), adding to the area's ecological significance.

Old Gough’s Cave, Cheddar Gorge

Louis' work has been dedicated to closely monitoring the behaviour and population dynamics of the greater horseshoe bats, with a specific focus on the crucial maternity season and breeding activities. Of particular interest is Old Gough's Cave (see above), a key roosting site that serves as a refuge for approximately 800 bats throughout the year. Through meticulous observations and data collection, Louis aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the bat population trends and behaviours over time.

Cheddar Gorge's ecological importance is further emphasised by its inclusion in the North Somerset and Mendip Special Area of Conservation (Special Area of Conservation-SAC). This designation not only highlights the area's ecological significance but also ensures that the bat populations are protected by robust legislation, making any form of disturbance or harm illegal. Moreover, the area's planning policies meticulously consider the potential impact on the bat population for any proposed developments, underlining the commitment to preserving the ecological balance of the region.

Mendip Hills, Somerset

Longleat are due to renew their stewardship agreement with Natural England for the Cheddar Complex (SSSI) within the Gorge and are preparing an application for a Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship agreement. Digg and Co. hope to be the lead consultancy responsible for delivering a comprehensive management plan which will aim to conserve and enhance the rare habitats and wildlife within the gorge, with a specific emphasis on optimizing the conditions for the Greater Horseshoe bat populations. Through his detailed and dedicated approach, Louis is playing a pivotal role in maintaining ecological harmony and safeguarding the diverse wildlife within Cheddar Gorge.