Bat in the cave

The Bear Cave in Kletno, located in the Sudetes of southwestern Poland, is not only famous for its stunning rock formations and prehistoric bear remains, but also for being a seasonal refuge for bats. During the colder months, several protected bat species, including the lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros), hibernate in the cave's cool, dark chambers. The cave's stable temperature and high humidity create ideal conditions for these delicate creatures to survive the winter undisturbed.

Bats are the only mammals capable of true flight and play a vital role in ecosystems around the world. They help control insect populations, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds. Despite common myths, bats are generally harmless to humans and are often misunderstood. With over 1,400 species globally, they display remarkable diversity - from tiny insect-eaters to fruit bats with wingspans over a meter long. Many bat species are now threatened due to habitat loss and climate change, making their conservation increasingly important.