This introductory course on bats and lighting provides a comprehensive overview of how artificial light impacts bat populations and ecology. During the course, we will look at the key considerations for designing lighting plans for developments, highways and other lighting that could affect bats. We’ll cover basic bat ecology and behaviour and how bats and other wildlife are affected by lighting. You will learn about the conservation concerns surrounding lighting and how we can mitigate this to help protect bats.

We will also look at creating an effective lighting plan to minimise disturbance to bats and other wildlife. This will include lighting terminology to help you communicate with developers and what species of bats are most affected by lighting. Together, we will examine some case studies and give real-world examples of good lighting plans.

An experienced Principal Ecologist and Bat Trainer, Sue Searle, from Ecology Training UK, teaches the course via a series of videos.

Bats and Lighting Course Content:

• Basic bat ecology and legislation.
• The effects of lighting on bats, wildlife and people.
• Which species of bat are most affected by light.
• Lighting terminology.
• What to consider when preparing lighting plans and lighting mitigation
• Preparing Lighting Plans for bats.
• Bat mitigation techniques for lighting.
• Case studies of lighting schemes for bats.

Bats and Lighting Course format:

This course is delivered on videos presented by Principal Ecologist, Sue Searle, BSc, PGDip, MCIEEM. Sue has 20 years of bat experience and has helped countless students gain their bat licence.

Module 1 Bats and Lighting – this module covers basic bat ecology and relevant legislation. Why lighting is an issue for bats, which species of bat are most affected by lighting and some case studies on bat use before and after lighting.  Playing time 46 mins.

Module 2 – Lighting terminology – in this module, we cover lighting definitions. This includes illuminance vs luminance, lighting types, lighting legislation and guidance. Playing time 40 mins.

Module 3 – Lighting planning and mitigation – during this module, we cover the key things to consider when there are bats and lighting is needed. This includes sensitive lighting plans, and lighting mitigation for bats. It also includes some case studies of lighting schemes. Playing time 67 mins.

There will be a short quiz at the end, and if you get over 70%, you will receive a Certificate.

Here’s what our students are saying:

A fantastic introduction to the subject, with comprehensive information, presented with interesting case studies. A valuable resource, with the online modules being available to re-visit at any point.

David

A career change in your 40’s its quite a daunting prospect, and even though I had completed lots of self study, small courses and training- I knew there were likely a few gaps in my knowledge, so doing a full structured course made good sense. Whilst some of the content was quite familiar, I was surprised by just how big some of the knowledge gaps were – it really boosted my confidence studying the modules and realising why they were so important. It is a great course that I would recommend to anyone wanting to qualify in Conservation, and has certainly helped me in my new career working as part of a landscape recovery project team

Bill Bradshaw

It was very informative and easy to access and navigate.

Tim

I liked the ability to undertake the course at my own pace.

Naomi

The teaching is excellent. It’s clear, precise and easy to follow. The knowledge from Sue is fantastic and it’s taught in a very understandable way with no rush. It’s been really good and I feel I’ve been able to retain the information well because of the way the course has been taught.

Max

The course was enjoyable and informative. I found it particularly helpful in how flexible the study time was. You could do one module and then leave it a day or two when you had more time. It has also helped my career prospects.

Tim

ETUK is such wonderful and exciting resource. I came across an advertisement in British Wildlife. I appreciate how generous and comprehensive the information is. It’s very empowering to feel I can actually gain the tools to help to make an impact.

Anna