Bat detector surveys are carried out by ecological consultants,
researchers, conservationists and hobbyists. Understanding and
categorising non-bat sounds in surveys offers the potential of
knock-on benefits for informing development projects (e.g. other
important records discovered within a site), as well as the
possibility of associated conservation benefits. In recent years
the number of people carrying out these surveys and recording calls
with bat detectors has grown considerably. These surveys often
generate vast amounts of audio recordings, resulting in the heavy
workload associated with completing the sound analysis and
reporting process. Those carrying out analysis can be distracted,
intrigued or delayed owing to the occurrence of recordings that are
unfamiliar and not identifiable to them. These recordings can
relate to 'difficult to ID' bat species, but also, often, sounds
not related to bats. This can be especially true when noise
triggers such as insects, small mammals or birds look like
bat-related noise. Therefore, only knowing what bats sound like is
not enough. It is extremely useful to know what other sources of
noise look and sound like within the same soundscape. This resource
will help bat workers, in whatever environment they are in, to be
more confident in recognising, categorising and dismissing other
sounds. The book includes a substantial downloadable sound library
(.wav format) that readers can listen to by ear or process through
sound analysis software. Is That a Bat? also caters for sounds that
are also heard by ear alone, in the field, during the hours of
darkness. These scenarios often have bat surveyors intrigued or
confused as to what they are listening to. Occasionally, knowing
what these sounds are could be important, or at the very least, of
interest. The first chapter caters for the subject overall,
including suggestions from the author as to why the subject matter
is of value. It also discusses bat-related calls (including social
calls) with a view to offering comparisons against the other
sources of sound discussed in separate chapters. Continuing through
the book, there are chapters covering the following: small mammals;
amphibians; insects; birds; electrical/mechanical noise; and other
noise/nuisances. Within each chapter there are sub-sections about
bat detector recorded sound, sound by ear, as well as advice on
techniques and methods to reduce or increase the likelihood of
recording other sounds. The book concludes with associated
appendices, including a 'Problem Solving Key' to help those
encountering an unfamiliar sound to narrow it down to the likely
source. With technology advancing at pace, the technical ability of
the analyst is of huge importance. With a wider perspective and
more knowledge, those responsible for interpreting field encounters
can be more confident when making decisions about sources of sound.
Apart from that, 'knowing stuff' makes the job far more interesting
and gives the bat worker a greater appreciation of the natural
world within which they are working.
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