Amy Lewis Amy Lewis.jpg "Brandt's bat in the hand - Amy Lewis")
About
This small bat is very similar to the whiskered bat, in fact these bats were only separated into two species in 1970. Brandt’s bats emerge soon after sunset and feed through the night at low heights in woodland and near water. They feed on moths, other small insects which they locate using echolocation. These bats are the longest-lived of all known bat species.
How to identify
A small bat with shaggy dark grey or light brown fur, it’s very similar in appearance to the whiskered bat but the Brandt’s is slightly larger. The face of the Brandt’s bat is pinkish and the fur on its belly is pale grey.
Where to find it
Found throughout England and Wales but it’s more common in the north and west. It commonly roosts in buildings during the summer and some hibernate in caves and tunnels over winter. However, the hibernation site for the majority of these bats is not yet known.
Habitats
When to find it
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
How can people help
Brandt’s bats are threatened by modern agricultural practice and a decline in woodland resulting in decreased habitat for feeding and fewer hollow trees for roosting. Hibernation sites may also be threatened by disturbance. The Wildlife Trusts are working hard to restore our native woodlands and you can help our bats in your own garden, too, by putting up a bat box. Pick a tree that gets some sun during the day, but is near to a hedge or other trees. All UK bats and their roosts are protected by law, which means it is illegal to harm or disturb them.