On July 20th, 2024, a team of the project participants embarked on a significant wildlife recovery survey at the picturesque Radakia beach, located in the southeast region of Pelion, Greece. This survey was part of a larger initiative, the Wildlife Recovery Survey: After the September 2023 Floods in Pelion, aiming to assess and document the impact of the catastrophic floods on the local fauna.

Survey Location: Radakia Beach Sea Cave

Radakia beach is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring stunning sea caves that provide a unique habitat for various species, including bats. These caves, carved by the relentless waves of the Aegean Sea, offer a sanctuary for chiropteran species, making them an ideal location for this survey. In Greek Mythology, Radakia is known for the cave of Thetis.

Bats in Focus: Miniopterus schreibersii and Rhinolophus euryale

During the survey, the team recorded two primary species of bats inhabiting the sea cave: Miniopterus schreibersii and Rhinolophus euryale.

Miniopterus schreibersii, commonly known as Schreiber's bat, was found to be the predominant species in the cave. These bats are characterized by their long wings and swift, agile flight, which enable them to navigate the narrow and twisting passages of the cave with ease. They are a key species in the region, contributing to the ecological balance by controlling insect populations.

Alongside Schreiber's bats, Rhinolophus euryale, also known as the Mediterranean horseshoe bat, was observed. This species is distinguishable by its unique horseshoe-shaped noseleaf, which aids in its sophisticated echolocation abilities. Rhinolophus euryale is particularly sensitive to environmental changes, making its presence a critical indicator of the cave's ecological health post-floods.

Yesterday, Chris Taklis had the pleasure of being invited by KOUDRASIS FISHING to talk about the pufferfish species Lagocephalus sceleratus in Greece.

This invasive species, commonly known as the silver-cheeked toadfish, has made its way into the Mediterranean waters, posing significant challenges to local ecosystems and fisheries. In this talk, conducted in Greek, we delved into its impact, the reasons behind its rapid spread, and what measures can be taken to manage this marine intruder. If you're interested in the intriguing world of Lagocephalus sceleratus and its implications for the Greek fishing community, make sure to watch the video!