Christiane Hinninger emphasized: “The bat tunnel is one of many measures being implemented in Wiesbaden to conserve species and protect their habitats. In light of the global biodiversity crisis, the creation of refuge areas is of central importance.” 

The Kalkofen, a former quarry north of the municipal landfill, is characterized by a wide variety of habitats and already provides valuable habitats for various species, including bats.

“The new roost will further enhance the ecological significance of the area. Bats perform important functions in the ecosystem. They disperse plant seeds, and as insect hunters, they prevent the mass proliferation of certain flying insects, thereby contributing to the stability of ecological systems,” explains Dr. Klaus Friedrich.

However, bats are severely affected by the loss of suitable habitats. The felling of old trees with hollow structures or building renovations that seal off crevices and niches are increasingly leading to the loss of suitable roosting sites. The targeted creation of new refuges is therefore an essential contribution to species conservation.

One such new habitat has now been opened with the tunnel connecting the ELW landfill site to the lime kiln. The tunnel, named “Petra,” was originally built for truck traffic and is 300 meters long and eight meters high. 

Olaf Godmann, a volunteer bat expert, recognized early on the potential of the structure, which had been decommissioned for years: “Thanks to its location and size, the tunnel has the potential to become one of the most important winter roosts for bats in Hesse.” 

The renovation work was carried out in close cooperation between the Environmental Agency and local recycling companies. The tunnel was largely sealed off on both ends and equipped with numerous roosting areas inside. The project primarily utilized existing and recycled materials. Sensors were installed for monitoring purposes to measure temperature and humidity, along with a detector that can record and identify bat calls. After only a short time, calls from pipistrelles were documented as they explored their new potential winter home. 

“The loss of biodiversity is a global problem that we cannot solve on our own in Wiesbaden. But the many local measures taken in various locations can make a difference for biodiversity,” Christiane Hinninger concluded.

More in-depth information on biodiversity will be provided at the numerous events during the “Wiesbaden Weeks of Biological Diversity,” which will take place from Monday, May 18, through Sunday, June 14. More information will follow at www.wiesbaden.de (opens in a new tab).