Background The caves of Pădurea Craiului, Bihor and Trascău mountains situated in north-western Romania are home to important bat populations. The project targets 7 of these species (listed in the Habitats Directive): greater mouse-eared bat (Myotis myotis), lesser mouse-eared bat (Myotis oxygnathus), greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum), lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros), Schreiber’s bat (Miniopterus schreibersii), barbastelle (Barbastella barbastellus) and Bechstein’s bat (Myotis bechsteinii). Bats have complex and specialised habitat requirements, meaning that they use a variety of habitats in a large area, some species can fly 20-40 km every night. Bats are most vulnerable during hibernation and when maternity colonies form, and disturbance of both over time leads to population decline. A significant number of caves in the project implementation area are frequently or occasionally visited by tourists sometimes without any kind of control causing disturbance for bat colonies. Other main threats are the negative attitude among general public coming from misconceptions and the absence of comprehensive management plans. Objectives The project aims to support long-term conservation and monitoring of bats population by increasing public awareness and creating an expert network. As a ground for achieving these objectives, data will be gathered on all aspects of bat activity: roost sites used at different times of the year, foraging habitats, connectivity structures used during flights between shelters and feeding areas, and migration routes. The knowledge acquired will be used to compile management plans for the targeted bat species which will be afterwards disseminated to other Natura 2000 sites and protected areas. A wide range of measures is foreseen including closing of some caves, limiting the number of visitors allowed, creating alternative tourism routes in the caves and proper lighting. Artificial bat boxes will be installed for forest dwelling bat species, and underground shelters will be cleared of hazardous waste and marked with warning signs to reduce human disturbance. Particular attention will be given to public awareness initiatives and education activities, including with children.