Hilton Willow Pit: The wild nature reserve that's the 'best place' to spot bats in the county

On Bat Appreciation Day we’re telling you where to spot creatures of the night
By Abigail Rabbett
Published 17th Apr 2024, 13:10 BST
June is when baby bats are born, with preganant females making the most of warmer weather to form maternity roosts - gathering in huge numbers to give birth in safety. If you spot a bat it's most likely to be the soprano pipistrelle - a common sight darting around the sky catching insects at dusk. There are a numer of other types to spot though - it's thought that at least nine of the 17 UK species of bat can be seen north of the border.June is when baby bats are born, with preganant females making the most of warmer weather to form maternity roosts - gathering in huge numbers to give birth in safety. If you spot a bat it's most likely to be the soprano pipistrelle - a common sight darting around the sky catching insects at dusk. There are a numer of other types to spot though - it's thought that at least nine of the 17 UK species of bat can be seen north of the border.
June is when baby bats are born, with preganant females making the most of warmer weather to form maternity roosts - gathering in huge numbers to give birth in safety. If you spot a bat it's most likely to be the soprano pipistrelle - a common sight darting around the sky catching insects at dusk. There are a numer of other types to spot though - it's thought that at least nine of the 17 UK species of bat can be seen north of the border.

Today is a very important day in the British calendar. It is Bat Appreciation Day.

And if like me, you grew up listening to Meat Loaf and reading Dracula you will understand the importance of this day without much explanation.

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However, I’m well aware not everyone can be as cool as I am, so for those of you not in the know, bats are very cool animals.

The wigged mammals are actually a protected species here in Britain due to the significant drop in numbers over the years.

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It is against the law to disrupt a roost and killing a bat in the UK could see you sentenced to six months in prison.

Derbyshire is home to around 12 known species of bats that have been documented by the Derbyshire Bat Group.

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If you’d the chance to spot one of these mysterious nocturnal beasts, then look no further because we’ve found a brilliant spot right here in Derby.

Hilton Willow Pit is widely recognised as one of the best places to see bats in Derbyshire.

The combination of lakes and ponds, woodland, and sheltered sunny areas make the former gravel pits at Hilton a haven for wildlife.

The pits, which are free to visit, are packed with lots of interesting walking routes to explore - but be warned, they are often muddy.

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It is open 24/7 with parking available on Willowpit Lane. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust advises visiting in the evenings to spot the bats.

You will likely see Daubenton's bats foraging over the wetlands, they are a common UK species that are fast and agile. They skim the water’s surface for prey.

The reserve is also well-known for its dragonflies and damselflies. Fifteen species have been recorded here, among them the emperor and ruddy darter dragonflies and the emerald and red-eyed damselflies.

For more information click here.

Related topics:Nature reserveBats