Heidelberg Castle is an imposing structure with many nooks and crannies. A lesser-known fact is that special inhabitants have resided here since the 19th century. Many species of bat populate the castle and have found their home here.
Many bats live in the castle despite all the activity.
It's hard to believe that such biodiversity exists amidst all the hustle and bustle in and around Heidelberg Castle. In addition to European toads and grass frogs, Alpine newts and fire salamanders, bats are by far the most interesting, and simultaneously most feared, animal inhabitants. But there is no reason to fear these small, fascinating, flying mammals. In this region, they only feast on insects and are one of the more critically endangered species.
Heidelberg Castle has become a permanent home for several species of bat. This is important, because the castle's many hiding places offer a suitable winter habitat for them. All in all, these eight species have made themselves comfortable in this princely home: the pipistrelle bat, greater mouse-eared bat, serotine bat, both the gray and brown long-eared bat, parti-colored bat, Natterer's bat, and barbastelle bat.
Rare bat species have found a space in Heidelberg Castle.
So many hiding places in the old castle walls.
Bats have existed for over 50 million years, and they've always loved dark and secluded spaces. Heidelberg Castle offers ideal hiding places. These night-owls overwinter in several places, including: the stag pit, the gate tower, the Ludwig’s Wing, the exploded tower, and the bell tower. Until they wake from hibernation to once again hunt insects on the expansive castle grounds, these and other locations remain closed to visitors, in order to protect the bats.
Particularly beautiful in the evening light: Heidelberg Castle.
These small, skilled fliers are not to be disturbed in their winter habitat; however, in the summer months, they can be observed all the more in their evening forays. On a walk through the Heidelberg gardens at twilight, steal a glance up and experience the bats as they zip around, then admire the beauty of the castle gardens as the last rays of sun bathe everything in gold.
