Where is ‘Batman’ hiding in the city of Antwerp?

Bats are fascinating animals that have captured our imagination for centuries. How common they are in the Antwerp city centre, the area within the Ring Road, is part of Sweco’s fauna and flora inventory study. This study is commissioned by the City of Antwerp.

Besides these mysterious creatures, our Ecosystem Services team (BUUR) also investigates the presence of other specific species, such as moths, and plants. These are very useful for biodiversity, but they also need to constantly adapt to changes in the urban environment.

How is the counting done?

We do so using a ‘bioblitz’ in which we record as many species of animals and plants as possible in a clearly defined area within 24 hours. Using modern scanning technology and proven methods, we patiently use our eyes and ears.

For instance, we set moth traps and bat detectors in the ZOO, on the PAKT site and at various schools and service centres. The result of this thorough biomonitoring gives an overall picture of the city’s biodiversity. This inventory is part of actions within the Antwerp 2030 climate plan.