There was an unsuspecting victim as the Mop Fair made its return to Evesham.
While the sights and sounds of the funfair proved joyous for residents, it was these exact things causing big problems for one of Evesham’s quieter inhabitants.
Evesham Bat Care say that the popular annual event created a big disturbance for the town’s bat population, who are usually in heat at this time of the year.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “The change in weather and the lights and noise of the Mop Fair are disorientating our bats.
“It’s a prime example of nature being put to one side for entertainment.”
TAKE A LOOK: 23 Photos from this year's Evesham Mop Fair
They added: “It’s that time of year when male bats are looking for a mate and so are thinking with the wrong brains, totally teenager-Lynx Africa kind of situation.
“These sorts of disturbances and interruptions will really mess them about.
“They don’t have long before the weather will turn, and they need to go and hibernate.”
Over the course of the weekend, three bats were brought into Evesham Bat Care.
The registered charity had not received any bats on weekends since the birthing season and the extremely hot weather in June and July.
The spokesperson added that it is not just events such as the Mop Fair that create problems for the bats, but also things like lighting up historical buildings.
Evesham Bat Care has spoken with Wychavon district and Evesham town councillor Julie Tucker several times about what can be done.
Councillor Tucker said: “Though I don’t know enough to comment on the Mop Fair, I am aware of the impact of light and noise pollution on wildlife.
“We need to be more careful of the needs of wildlife and nature in general when giving planning permission for building.
“We also need to give nature a helping hand where possible.
“More trees, bird and bat boxes should be provided. We can plant more pollinator-friendly perennials rather than wasteful bedding plants which are mostly useless to wildlife.”
The organisers of the Mop Fair, Danter’s Funfairs, have also been contacted but have not yet provided a response on the matter.
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