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effectively hidden in the habitat. However,
such studies are now affected by the new
Wildlife and the Countryside Act. The part
dealing with shrews became effective from
28.9.1982, and it seems reasonable that persons
using any traps (including the Longworth) that
may catch shrews, especially if they are unable
to take "all reasonable precautions" to prevent
injury to shrews", should first apply for a
licence (from the Nature Conservancy Council,
London). It is hoped that a booklet explaining
how the new legislation affects other mammals
will be available during 1983.
Bats are also protected under this new Act.
Generally they are fairly easy to locate, but
in flight are extremely difficult to identify
So if you know of a roost or where they are
flying, let us know and, under licence, we can
help you identify them.
In the months to come we hope to include in the
Bulletin a series of brief articles on techniques
in studying local mammals in the field. Meanwhile,