This is a real centre of excellence for the study of bats— the academic resources on this website are outstanding. (mainly in French) and bat conferences are held here every 2 years—the next in 2016. Bourges is almost in the centre of France and so can be a good stopover if one is driving south. The museum’s permanent exhibition La Planete Chauves-souris is worth a visit as it combines scientific study with some extraordinary art installations like the sculpture made from the skulls of 400 Natterer’s bats killed in an underground poisoning incident. It is a powerful reminder of the need to protect bats from man. Bat expert Laurent Arthur, sometimes gives talks at the museum. His book is the best reference guide to Bats in France. |
Bourges Cathedral is a great starting point for a bat walk as bats inhabit the Gothic facade. |