The National Lottery caught up with Susan Kerwin, founder of Bat Rehabilitation Ireland, about how she discovered her passion for bats and how the group’s work is making a lasting impact on wildlife conservation.
I hear that National Lottery players have empowered bat conservation in Co. Limerick?
That’s correct. Bat Rehabilitation Ireland (BRI) is proud to have emerged as a vital force for the protection and understanding of Irish bats. Thanks to part-funding from National Lottery players through the Heritage Council, we have expanded our reach, not only helping wildlife but also engaging the local community and breaking down myths about bats. Our charity’s work is vital for conservation, but it also shows how small acts can make things possible!
How does a National Lottery player’s contribution help a Good Cause?
By simply playing the National Lottery, players are doing much more than buying a ticket — they are actively contributing to the survival of Ireland’s wildlife. They are helping fund essential projects like BRI, enabling us to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect thousands of bats annually. The difference goes far beyond playing a game—it’s about making a lasting contribution to the community and wildlife that depends on it. National Lottery players are actively supporting Irish charities such as BRI, contributing to wildlife conservation, and playing a role in educating the next generation about the importance of protecting the environment.
Tell me a little bit more about BRI…
BRI is a rescue, rehabilitation, and educational charity focused on Ireland’s bats. The project took off after my personal experience battling cancer at 27. During my recovery, I found solace in observing bats in her garden, sparking a passion for these often-misunderstood creatures. I delved into learning about Ireland’s nine bat species, including the long-eared bat and the lesser horseshoe bat, which contribute to pest control and nature’s overall health.
It sounds like these little creatures need our assistance…
Bats are key to ecological balance and face many threats, including habitat loss, pesticides, and human disturbance. We are so thankful that BRI’s efforts are now bolstered by Good Causes Funding generated by National Lottery game players as well as partnerships with Dublin Zoo and contributions to research through the Darwin Tree of Life project.
That’s amazing – what else has BRI been able to do?
A dedicated volunteer team ensures injured bats receive the best care at BRI’s rehab centre. These animals are nursed back to health in specialised flight tunnels and released back into their home areas, highlighting the charity’s focus on returning bats to their natural habitats.
And the impact of National Lottery funding hasn’t stopped there?
That’s right. With the purchase of a night vision camera, BRI has opened a new window into the world of bats for local communities. The camera allows people to witness bats foraging and helps us better understand bat roosts. This technology has been a game-changer for BRI, significantly enhancing our educational programmes and conservation efforts.
The charity has also had some big wins – tell us about that?
One remarkable case showcases the work we are doing at BRI. In December 2022, we rescued 104 bats from a building under renovation, providing them with the care they needed. Volunteers meticulously recorded the bats’ biometrics, contributing to research on bat movement and lifespan in Ireland.
Sounds like BRI is very thankful for the support it gets?
The funding has allowed us to care for this colony of bats and make a positive impact on both the wildlife and the community.
