OUR STORY

“I believe that collaboration between individuals and organisations in the bat management and conservation field represents a synergistic approach capable of driving meaningful change. The purpose behind The Bat Co. Lab is fostering an engaged community of bat enthusiasts, directing focus to the most relevant topics and advancements in the field, and increasing accessibility to sources of knowledge and experience for the betterment of our collaborators and bats.”

- Mark Roper | Founding Director, Ecologist

Travel grant opportunity

Join the 20th International Bat Research Conference (IBRC)!

The Bat Co. Lab is proud to offer a dedicated travel grant to support passionate bat workers from New Zealand to attend the 20th International Bat Research Conference in beautiful Cairns, Australia.

Location: Cairns, Australia
Conference Dates: 3-8 August

Applications close: 30 April 2025 11.59 PM AEST

Travel grants are available to individuals that would benefit from attending IBRC 2025 but the costs are currently prohibitive. The travel grant also aims to increase the diversity of attendees, whose research and insights would enhance the IBRC 2025 program. 

Attendees travelling from New Zealand can apply for up to AUD$1,000 to offset the costs of travel, accommodation and/or registration thanks to The Bat Co. Lab. We want to give you the chance to:

  • Engage with experts, exchange knowledge and advance bat ecology methodologies;

  • Amplify your professional impact and form lasting collaborations; and

  • Support and promote innovative, community-driven conservation solutions.


How to Apply: Visit the official conference website here for grant eligibility, conditions, and application instructions.

Listen to our latest podcast

Mark’s journey

“After 20 years specialising in freshwater and fish ecology, driven by my focus on continuous learning, I sought a new challenge and found it in bat ecology. My passion for bats comes from their rarity, and their often-overlooked but vital role in healthy ecosystems. I want to use my skills as an ecologist to make a real difference in bat conservation. I believe that true progress isn’t going to be achieved alone. It is the result of the collective strength of a dedicated community.

That’s why The Bat Co. Lab exists. To connect, inspire and elevate those passionate about bats worldwide. Our mission is to cultivate an inclusive, accessible and resource-rich community dedicated to bat conservation and management. Through professional services, educational content and continuous learning opportunities, we bridge knowledge gaps, spark innovation, and amplify conservation efforts on a global scale.

But this is about more than protecting bat populations. It’s about igniting a movement of informed individuals working together to create lasting change. The Bat Co. Lab is where curiosity meets action. We’re here to help others discover the same fascination that led me to this field, equipping them with the tools, expertise, and connections to make a meaningful impact. In doing so, we aim to leave a lasting legacy. One that inspires future generations and continues to propel bat conservation forward for years to come.”

Recent projects

Acoustic Bat Surveys, New Zealand & Sweden

At The Bat Co. Lab, we offer comprehensive acoustic bat surveys designed specifically for Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA). Our expert field team uses state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and proven data analysis techniques to identify bat species and interpret their activity patterns. We then deliver actionable insights that help you meet regulatory requirements, safeguard local biodiversity, and ensure your development project progresses responsibly.

Expert Acoustic Species Identification, New Zealand and Europe

We specialise in identifying bat species from both New Zealand and Europe using full-spectrum recordings. By combining advanced acoustic software with our deep understanding of New Zealand and European bat echolocation calls, we provide precise species identification and activity pattern analysis. Our detailed reports help ecologists, conservation groups, and industry professionals make informed decisions and contribute to effective bat management strategies.

National Bat Monitoring, Sweden

In partnership with BatLife Sweden, we work to support a nationwide network of acoustic recording stations that collect year-round data on bat activity. By tracking bat populations at fixed locations across all seasons, we help uncover how different species respond to weather and other environmental factors over time. This long-term monitoring strengthens efforts in environmental protection and helps identify important population trends for bats throughout the country.

Enhancing Bat Survey Methods in Krka National Park, Croatia

In 2025 The Bat Co. Lab is working with the Czech Academy of Sciences, Operation Wallacea and Apodemus to refine bat survey techniques in Krka National Park, Croatia - and to publish a list of the park’s resident species - currently at 24 and including the globally important Schreiber’s bent-wing bat. We’re also testing the effectiveness of acoustic lures in mist-netting, assessing their impact on capture rates, species biases, and long-term monitoring data.

Tracking Bat Migration in Kvarken Archipeligo, Finland

Since 2023, The Bat Co. Lab has been contributing to KvarkenBats, a project focussed on understanding Nathusius’ pipistrelle (Pipistrellus nathusii) migration to and from its wintering grounds. Using advanced acoustic monitoring methods and radio telemetry, we track how these bats cross between Finland and Sweden. Based at the Valsörarna Biological Station, this project is significant, with over 800 bats ringed at the site since 2013—making it Finland’s largest bat-ringing site.

Our community

At The Bat Co. Lab, we are dedicated to building and supporting a vibrant community that brings together bat enthusiasts and early-career professionals, seasoned ecologists and consultancy clients. We believe that true change comes from a collective effort, and by acting inclusively and sharing knowledge, we amplify the impact of our collaborative work in bat conservation.

  • We provide expert-driven, science-based consultancy services designed to implement effective bat conservation strategies. Our collaborative approach ensures innovative, best-practice solutions that drive lasting environmental impact, tailored to your specific needs. To find out how we can support you, get in touch via the button below.

  • We’re dedicated to supporting new ecologists as you embark on your careers in bat conservation. With access to mentorship, training and a wealth of educational content, we will equip you with the knowledge, skills and connections you need to grow and make a real difference. To stay up to date on our latest projects and how you can get involved, sign up to our newsletter via the button below.

  • We invite seasoned bat ecologists to join our global network, where you can collaborate with fellow leaders, share insights, and amplify your impact. Together, we will advance the field and inspire the next generation of bat ecologists to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and conservation. If you are interested in finding out more, get in touch via the button below.

Our values

  • We are committed to transparency, ethical practices and accountability in all aspects of our work, ensuring trust and credibility in bat conservation and management. 

  • Learning is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to constant growth, both as individuals and as a community, sharing the latest knowledge and approaches in the field.

  • We uphold the highest standards of professionalism, providing timely, impartial and expert advice, whilst ensuring that our actions serve the well-being of the species we assess and protect.

  • We believe in long-term management and transform passion into meaningful action. We work to preserve not only bats but the ecosystems they inhabit, leaving a sustainable legacy for future generations.

  • We believe that true change comes from the collective effort of a community. By connecting people, sharing resources and acting inclusively, we amplify the impact of our collective work in bat conservation and management.

  • We embrace flexibility, dedication and results-driven work as core components of our approach, allowing ecologists to explore and thrive in this diverse field.

Stay in the loop