Bat Dropping Sample Collection Guide
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- Sample Collection Guidance
Step 1
Thoroughly inspect the sampling location. Identify the dropping and reserve dropping required for analysis. Where possible, select droppings which are:
Step 2
Wearing the provided sterile gloves, using one of the spatulas, collect one whole sample and scoop it into one of the tubes. Secure the tub lid tightly and gently mix to ensure the dropping is placed in the preservative
Step 3
Write the sample I.D on the form matching it with the tube’s ID. If the tube is not pre-labelled, use a marker pen or sticker. Collect another whole sample for the reserve using a different spatula and scoop it into another tube
Step 4
Repeat steps above as required for up to another five species/sites using a separate tube/spatula for each sample
Step 5
Place the completed form and samples into the kit box (include reserve samples were possible), sealing it with the included clear seals and tape (not provided). Return the kit to any Royal Mail post box (postage has already been paid)
Our kits are designed to have an expiry date with a minimum of 24 months from delivery if kept in ambient conditions. After sampling, kits can be kept for 4 weeks in the refrigerator or 2 weeks at ambient conditions. For best results, please try to sample and send samples back as soon as possible.
Yes, we can analyse droppings which are collected using other company’s kits.
Kit components can be disposed of or recycled according to your locally available recycling facilities. Sample preservative solution can be disposed of by pouring down the sink with copious amounts of water. If you would prefer, you can return kits to us for correct disposal.
Our procedure involves the selection of a single dropping from your sample for analysis. If you send in multiple droppings within a sample, we will select the freshest most viable dropping for analysis which is most likely to result in positive identification. We only analyse a single dropping and do not combine multiple droppings for analysis at the same time.
If the analysis doesn’t work, we will select an alternative or reserve dropping from your sample and repeat the entire analytical process. Sometimes, if necessary, we will use additional analytical steps on your sample in an attempt to obtain a viable species identity. We will not charge for any additional analytical steps which we conduct on your sample.