Consider breeding sites and roosts of endangered birds and bats when demolishing buildings
Environmental Agency of the City of Chemnitz asks for attentiveness and assistance
The removal of breeding sites of native bird species and bat roosts is strictly prohibited. This is emphasised by the Lower Nature Conservation Authority in the City of Chemnitz Environmental Agency.
Especially when old houses are demolished and replaced by new buildings, there is a risk that breeding birds, young animals or even entire bat colonies will die. As the new buildings often have no wall gaps, cracks or accessible cavities, the important habitats of the animals are usually permanently lost.
To avoid jeopardising protected species and possibly risking a high fine, buildings should therefore be inspected by a specialist before demolition work begins, who will record exactly which animals are living in the building. If this is known, demolition work can easily be planned in such a way that no animals are harmed by simple measures. Lost breeding sites or bat roosts can, for example, be protected by nesting and bat boxes on the new building.
bat boxes on the new building or on buildings in the neighbourhood.
In a large city such as Chemnitz, many older houses with their niches and hiding places have become an important habitat. Numerous bird and bat species find unique and now rare breeding, reproduction and habitats here. While the nocturnal, hidden bats are often barely noticed, many people enjoy the lively house sparrows or the recurring swifts and house martins.
swifts and house martins.
Anyone can help
Anyone who observes demolition or renovation work on a building where birds or even bats frequently fly in and out is asked to inform the Environmental Agency's Lower Nature Conservation Department.
Anyone planning to demolish a building themselves is asked to contact the Lower Nature Conservation Authority at umweltamt(at)stadt-chemnitz.de in good time. The staff will be happy to provide advice to ensure a conflict-free coexistence of construction work and species protection. Further information and advice for project developers can also be found on the City of Chemnitz website www.chemnitz.de.