More mines2

Studying mines
from outside
Many mines cannot be physically entered by bat biologists due to extensive collapse. Today these mines are live trapped to study whether these animals are using the site. In many cases is is less expensive to simply to install a bat friendly gate on a portal without bothering with a wildlife survey or the expense of heavy equipment. As land development and recreational use constantly increases impact on natural caves, these abandoned mines are becoming an important "replacement" habitat. Landowners, state agencies, and conservation organizations may manage the site for bats instead of simply bulldozing it shut.

Several different species were caught at this particular anthracite coal mine portal, including a federally endangered Indiana bat. This was the second Indiana bat site known in Pennsylvania.