Nature Champions: Leisler’s Bat

©DanielHargreaves / BCT
©RobertStebbings
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The second largest bat in Scotland, it has often been misidentified as the closely-related Noctule bat.

Ongoing research is adding to our knowledge of the distribution of this little-known bat, which seems to prefer the southwest, with the Noctule preferring the southeast.

Action Needed

  • Go on a bat walk.
  • Ensure wind turbine sites are monitored for Leisler’s bat before and after construction.
  • Support conservation of ancient woodland and planting of mixed woodland.
  • Ensure the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy is fully implemented.

Threats

Lack of knowledge about the species and how to protect it; injury from wind turbines due to its high-flying habit.

MSP Nature Champion

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