Determination of bat (Chiroptera) activity and abiotic conditions of lomburdekini cave (Kalecik-Ankara)

Caves are one of the most important roosting sites of members of the Chiroptera order. The caves preferred by bats in each biological period may vary. This is due to the physical characteristics of the cave, the structure of the cave environment, and the individual and seasonal needs of the bats. It is known that Rhinolophus mehelyi, Myotis myotis, Myotis blythii and Miniopterus schreibersii species use the Lömbürdekini Cave. This study aimed to determine the cave's seasonal bat activity and abiotic conditions. For this purpose, periodic surveys were conducted in the cave between April 2022 and September 2023. Six different station areas were identified in the cave. Temperature, humidity, CO2, H2S, CO, O2 levels and bat activity were investigated at these stations. The relationship between the parameters measured inside the cave and the variability in bat activity was tested with statistically appropriate tests. Temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide values inside the cave were compared with those outside. Although cave ecosystems are thought to offer stable conditions, the findings of this study suggest that Lömbürdekini Cave may have a low degree of isolation from the external environment for some parameters and relatively stable conditions for others. The cave is used by 82% of the bats during pregnancy and maternity periods, 16% during mating and 2% during hibernation. The most common species recorded in the cave was Myotis myotis/blythii; the least common species was Rhinolophus mehelyi. As seen in this study, measurements taken throughout the year and bat activity in the cave can vary. Recognizing the species and habitat is of great importance in conservation biology studies. In this thesis, the importance of year-round studies to protect cave ecosystems and cave bats is emphasized.