| Abstract [eng] |
Bats are prevalent in the city of Vilnius, forming an important part of the urban ecosystem. Due to changing environmental conditions and the increasing impact of urbanization, the distribution and habitat selection patterns of many bat species are shifting. The aim of this master's thesis is to determine the species diversity and distribution patterns of bats in the city of Vilnius. The objectives of the study are: to identify the species diversity of bats in Vilnius; to determine the distribution patterns of different bat species; and to compare the flight activity characteristics of the studied bats throughout the day and season. The species diversity of bats was studied by analyzing acoustic data collected in Vilnius and performing sonogram and spectrogram analyses using the computer program BatExplorer. The research was conducted in 10 districts of Vilnius from July to early August 2022. The study identified 11 species of bats: Nyctalus noctula, Nyctalus leisleri, Eptesicus serotinus, Eptesicus nilssonii, Pipistrellus nathusii, Pipistrellus pipistrellus, Pipistrellus pygmaeus, Vespertilio murinus, Plecotus auritus, Myotis daubentonii, and Myotis nattereri. The distribution of different bat species in Vilnius showed clear patterns. The most common species were Eptesicus serotinus and Nyctalus noctula, found in all districts. Myotis daubentonii and Myotis nattereri were found in only two districts. The study results also indicate that the distribution of different bat species reflects their ecological needs and ability to adapt to the urban environment. Flight activity is highest in the evening and during the summer. The data from this study highlight the need to preserve and develop urban green spaces and water bodies to ensure the stability of bat populations and biodiversity in the city. |
