Celtic Manor Resort - The Roman Road and The Montgomerie
Wales
Written by: Gary Connell
2024
We have installed bat boxes on the Roman Road course at The Celtic Manor Resort, providing bats with safe places to hibernate and cool spots for summer foraging. By attracting bats, we hope to naturally control crane fly populations.
Crane flies are problematic because their larvae, also known as leatherjackets, feed on grass roots, causing damage to the turf. This can lead to thinning, weakened grass, and patches of bare soil, compromising the overall health and aesthetics of the course. Additionally, damaged areas are more susceptible to further environmental stress and pest infestations, increasing maintenance costs and the need for treatments to restore the turf.
The boxes were crafted on-site using locally sourced and recycled materials, supporting both sustainability and effective pest management. This initiative enhances the health of the course while contributing to biodiversity and reducing reliance on chemical treatments.
