Back around October 1st

 Just thought I’d share this, an unprecedented number of visitors, for the month of October 2025.

Thank you all very much!

A Brand New Bat Detector is here!

It’s here! The SM5BAT

I’ve seen some excellent detailed photos of it, and I’m aware of its remarkable capabilities. It’s a professional piece of equipment, capable of high quality recordings of bats and more - right out of the box!

It is a stand alone, static (unattended) recording system; designed for substantial length deployments in the field.

I predict that it will be very well received by Ecologists all over the world. I really like what I’ve seen so far!

It looks like it’s going to be “the bee’s knees!” 

Stay tuned…

Happy bat detecting!

Book Review: 'QGIS for Ecologists - An Introduction to Mapping for Ecological Surveys'

'QGIS for Ecologists An Introduction to Mapping for Ecological Surveys'

By Stephanie Kim Miles     

How does one review a guidebook to mapping software? Well, the short answer is it’s not easy.

This, coming from someone who studied similar books on software, computer networking, etc., for close to 15 years (in the past).

To begin with, I focused my attention on how concise, easily readable, useful, and how easy it was to retain the information. As well as how easy it was to put into practical practice, when actually working with the software.

Let’s start with a General Description of the book:

If you're an ecologist, wildlife researcher, or environmental consultant looking to master the art of mapping for your ecological projects, this book is your essential guide. Aimed specifically at beginners, it offers a hands-on approach to using QGIS—an accessible, open-source GIS platform—for creating the maps you need for effective reporting.

It covers the fundamental stages of map-making, providing clear, jargon-free instructions that will help you confidently create a variety of maps commonly used in ecological work. Whether you're navigating the world of ecological consultancy or conducting field surveys, this guide ensures that you have all the tools necessary to produce professional-grade maps without the steep learning curve often associated with GIS software.

Throughout, you'll gain practical skills in creating key maps such as:

• Basic survey maps
• Aerial imagery survey maps
• Designated sites maps
• Desk-study maps
• Protected species maps
• Habitats maps

In addition to map creation, the book walks you through essential QGIS functions, including downloading third-party datasets, creating your own data, geo-referencing images, and importing GPX files. Links to downloadable data and resources are provided, making it easy to access everything you need to replicate the processes outlined in the book. The included workflows offer step-by-step guidance that you can adapt for your own projects, ensuring that the book remains a valuable resource long after you've completed the exercises.

Whether you're a student new to QGIS or a seasoned professional looking to refresh your GIS skills, this book is the perfect companion for anyone working in ecological consultancy, conservation, or related fields. Its straightforward approach and practical applications make it an indispensable tool for anyone looking to integrate GIS mapping into their ecological work.

A volume covering everything you need to know to get started working with QGIS.

 

There are several books on QGIS currently available, as well as guidebooks to using and mastering the QGIS software.

I’ve looked into the other currently available books on QGIS. So that I can effectively inform the reader, as to how this one compares.

The other books, currently available on Amazon (for example) amount to exactly 12 separate titles, when you search for “QGIS book” on Amazon.

I’ve looked into each of them. Out of those 12, QGIS by Stephanie Kim Miles ranks right at the top of the list.

“QGIS for Ecologists” provides a hands-on guide for leveraging QGIS in ecological research and site mapping, blending clarity with technical rigor in its instructional design. The book stands out for its methodical walkthroughs, as evidenced by the included screenshots, which effectively demystify GIS workflows for both new and experienced users.

Practical Step-by-Step Instructions

Instructions are presented in actionable steps, such as grid creation, exporting data, and working with designated sites maps. Each segment carefully outlines not only what you need to do, but also why it’s important, fostering greater understanding for users unfamiliar with GIS terminology. The designated sites map section provides multiple methods—downloading basemaps, connecting to online basemaps, and adding boundary data through Web Map Services—ensuring flexibility no matter the available data or user expertise.

Focused Exercises and Guided Questions

In addition to practical tutorials, the book incorporates guided exercises reflective of an educational text. For example, users are prompted to list steps for exporting a basic map or downloading basemaps, reinforcing learning through application and repetition. These questions encourage active engagement rather than passive reading, ideal for both classroom and self-guided study.

A particular strength is the explanation of categorized symbology, a common challenge for ecologists who need to visualize complex survey data. Through the provided screenshots, the reader is taught how to add new fields, simplify attribute tables, and assign survey categories with customizable colors and symbols. The instructions are precise and result-oriented, making the process approachable for users who may not have strong technical backgrounds.

Throughout the examples, the language remains clear and professional, showing sensitivity to the likely mixed audience of scientists, students, and conservation workers. Options for data sources, connection protocols, and map coordinate systems are thoughtfully explained, covering both UK and regional needs.

“QGIS for Ecologists” is a well-organized manual that succeeds in making GIS tools accessible and relevant to ecological practitioners. The balanced use of screenshots, stepwise detail, and reflective questions helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, leaving readers empowered to create professional ecological maps and conduct spatial analysis independently.

Until next time,

Happy bat detecting! map making!

A Brand-New Bat Detector Is Coming Soon

A new and highly capable bat recorder is on the way, and it represents an exciting development for bat researchers and ecologists alike.

Details are still under wraps, but I can share that the device is a professional-grade system engineered to deliver exceptional audio quality right out of the box. It is a fully standalone, static recording unit designed for extended, unattended operation in the field—ideal for long-term ecological monitoring projects.

From what I’ve seen so far, the build quality and capabilities are impressive. I expect this new recorder will be very well received by ecologists around the world once it’s officially unveiled.

While I can’t share more just yet, I’m looking forward to providing updates as soon as information becomes available.

In the meantime, I’ll also be posting the long-delayed book reviews over the next few weeks—thank you for your patience.

Wishing everyone a successful bat call and data analysis season.

Happy bat detecting!

Update: The Blog has been behind schedule a bit...

An Update Post:

Very sorry to report that book reviews are still far behind schedule, due to ongoing medical issues.

I’m still looking forward to completing a review of this distinctive publication; and posting it up here. Thank you for your patience during this time.

• The upcoming book reviews will begin with a review of this unique book:

•  QGIS for Ecologists

Happy bat detecting!

Review: The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 from Wildlife Acoustics

The Song Meter Mini Bat from Wildlife Acoustics (USA) is The latest version of The Mini Bat 2, an unattended bat recorder.

The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 (AA) 

Packaging - included in the box, is everything you need:

• QR codes to Tutorial videos.
• Frequently asked questions.
• QR code / Links to free product training guides.
• Link to a full/detailed product user guide.

 

Some Basics:

• It’s the 2nd Generation Mini Bat.

• Same small size; with twice the battery life.

• Constructed of olive-coloured, IPX-7 Rated ABS.

• Rugged, and waterproof.

• Has a Humidity Regulation Packet + Moisture Vent.

Some of the features of the latest Version of The Mini Bat 2 are:

• Full Spectrum and/or Zero Crossing*

• Ultrasonic: 192kHz, 256kHz, 384kHz, and 500kHz.

• Acoustic: W/ Optional Microphone: 8kHz, 12kHz, 16kHz, 22.05kHz, 24kHz, 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 96kHz.

• Up to 50 10-Hour nights of recording.

Additional Specs of The Mini Bat 2 

• Size: 123mm x 134mm x 36mm (4.9” x 5.3” x 1.4”)

• Weight: 190 grams / 0.42 lb. / 290 g with batteries.

• Features 500kHz sampling, adjustable gain, SD Card size up to 1TB.

• Operating Temperature: -20℃ to 85℃ Or -4℉ to +185℉

 

Interior Design and Controls:

It comes equipped with a (built-in) omnidirectional ultrasonic microphone. It records 16-bit PCM .wav files - to a single, Micro SD card (of up to 2 terabytes). Sample rates available, range from 8kHz to 96kHz.

Is it easy to deploy? - Yes!

This unit features 3 Pre-Programmed Modes which many of us have come to appreciate:

• Record bats 24 hours a day (subject to triggering).

• Record bats from sunset to sunrise (subject to triggering).

• Record bats 30 min before sunset to 30 min after sunset (subject to triggering).

Some highlights from The User Guide:

• P. 17 How to insert batteries.

• P. 21 The LEDs and what the mean.

• P. 23 The 2nd Mic - Audible.

• P. 26 Deployment Checklist.

• P. 31…Unit Placement - Concise explanation.

• P. 33 Transect Mode + KML.

• P. 43 How to configure multiple units.

• P. 55 Settings: FS, ZC, ZC+FS

• P. 64 Sunrise and sunset.

• P. 69 Battery and SD card life.

• P. 81 Song Meter Configuration Editor.

• P. 91 Configuration Editor.

• P. 98 Schedule block elements.

• P. 110 GUANO Metadata.

• P. 113 Analyzing your recordings.

• P. 115 Troubleshooting.

What can it do? 

Record bats and other ultrasonic wildlife for up to 50 ten-hour nights. Add an optional stub mic to capture birds, amphibians, and other animals.

A low-noise mic picks up quiet, distant echolocations, while advanced triggering captures more bats and filters out false triggers.

The result? More bat calls, less time spent sorting unusable files.

The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 (AA) currently sells for $749 US Dollars.

It comes with one, built-in ultrasonic microphone. 

An optional Mic for audible sounds is available (purchased separately $75 US Dollars)

This unit would be excellent for anyone who needs a small, high-quality, static bat recorder.

Recording: Eptisicus fuscus (Big Brown Bat)

500kHz sample rate.

Recording: Lasiurus borealis (Eastern Red Bat)

500kHz sample rate.

Recording: Lasiurus cinereus (Hoary Bat)

500kHz sample rate.

Recording: Lasionycteris noctivagans (Silver-Haired Bat).

Cell phone interface display

Cell phone interface display - Configuration controls available

Pros:

• Easy to deploy.

• Packed with useful features.

• Professional-level recording quality.

• Optional (affordable) audio microphone extends it’s capabilities.

Cons:

• None.

Summary of features:

• Built-in low-noise mic captures high-fidelity bat calls

• Battery lasts up to 50 ten-hour nights

• Optional stub mic records birds, amphibians, and more*

• Free app programs: GPS, settings, and schedules via Bluetooth

• IP67-rated housing ensures all-weather durability

• Rear tripod mount for flexible placement

• Lockable, ergonomic design for security

• Compact and lightweight for easy transport

Until next time,

Happy bat detecting!

Review: The Hi-Sound Compact Parabolic Microphone from Dodotronic

A short review of The Hi-Sound Compact Parabolic Microphone from Dodotronic, Inc.

Neil Middleton (The BatAbility Club) carefully compared this unit from Dodotronic, with one of the "Gold Standards" of parabolic dish microphones: The Parabolic Dish from Telinga, Inc.!

The Telinga Dish (stock photo)

Unpacking the box:

Opening the case:

 

The case's protective foam is not permanently attached

The microphone weighs 300 grams

Current price, directly from Dodotronic, at the time of this writing is €248.00.

I recently had the pleasure of using the Hi-Sound Compact Parabolic Stereo Microphone from Dodotronic, and I must say, this compact device has quickly become an essential tool for my sound recording endeavors. 

Arriving directly from Italy, the packaging exuded quality and care, setting the tone for the product within.

Design and Build Quality:

The Hi-Sound Compact features a parabolic dish made of robust polycarbonate, ensuring durability while remaining lightweight at just 300 grams. With an outer diameter of 35 cm and a depth of 7 cm, this microphone is both compact and effective, making it perfect for fieldwork and outdoor settings. 

Its portability is enhanced by the included carry case, allowing for easy transport and storage.

Performance and Specifications:

One of the standout features of the Hi-Sound Compact is its capability to bring distant sounds closer. While shotgun microphones are a common choice among wildlife sound recordists, this parabolic microphone offers a flatter frequency response and a significant gain, making it ideal for various applications, including:

- Wildlife recording

- Sporting events

- Investigative work

- Industrial surveillance

With a sensitivity of -24dB and a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 80dB, the Hi-Sound Compact excels in capturing nuanced sounds from 20Hz to 20kHz. 

My preliminary tests confirmed its ability to outperform traditional shotgun microphones, providing a clear and substantial increase in sound capture. 

I was particularly impressed with how it allowed me to record distant Red-shouldered Hawks during the day, which was a challenge with my previous setup.

User Experience:

The microphone operates on a simple 3V DC system and connects via a standard 3.5mm jack, making it compatible with many digital recorders and DSLR/video cameras. The included handle is a thoughtful touch, offering excellent stability without picking up minor hand movements during recording.

However, a few drawbacks should be noted. While the Hi-Sound Compact comes with a built-in mount for flash sockets, it lacks a tightening mechanism, making it prone to slipping if not handled carefully. Additionally, the microphone is not waterproof, which is an important consideration for longer-term outdoor setups. 

Though the product includes a short cable, I found it somewhat limiting, and the protective foam in the carry case tends to come loose. Lastly, the microphone does not lock securely into place on DSLR hot shoe mounts, which may pose a challenge during dynamic shoots. This was the case on the Canon DSLR I used.

Conclusion:

Overall, the Hi-Sound Compact Parabolic Stereo Microphone is an impressive and affordable option for sound recordists at a list price of 248 Euros. 

Its compact size, exceptional sound quality, and portability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to capture high-quality audio from a distance. Just keep in mind its limitations regarding waterproofing and cable length.

For anyone serious about recording wildlife sounds or similar applications, I highly recommend downloading the free User Guide available on Dodotronic’s website for detailed specifications and tips on usage. 

With the Hi-Sound Compact, you’ll find yourself capturing sounds like never before!

Happy sound recording!

The Next Device For Testing & Review Is Here! The Hi-Sound Compact Parabolic Microphone from Dodotronic

As stated in a recent blog post, I was actively thinking about the next bat detector (or wildlife sound recorder) to review.

Well, I had parabolic dish microphones on my mind. So, the first company I reached out to – was Dodotronic. I remembered seeing some very interesting parabolic dish microphones on their website.

After reaching out to Ivano, at Dodotronic, it was decided that The Hi-Sound Compact would be the device to test & review.

It is a compact, and affordable parabolic dish microphone on the Dodotronic website.

The live webinar/presentation/review of this interesting bit of kit, will be viewable to members of the BatAbility Club; on July 8th.

I am happy to report, that Dodotronic shipped me a review sample straight away. And it arrived here in New York this afternoon!

The Hi-Sound Compact

I would also like to take this opportunity, to inform the reader that I will once again, be actively seeking a device to review, for the live webinar following this one. Which will take place approximately 2 months from now.

If you are a manufacturer of bat detectors, and would like to have your bat detector featured/reviewed during a live webinar for The BatAbility Club: Please contact me!

Happy bat detecting!