British Bats
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STATS Head-Body Length- 37-51mm Weight- 4-10g Wingspan- 19-25cm Tail Length- 32-44mm |
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DESCRIPTION- The Brandt's Bat is very similar to the Whiskered Bat, and was only recognized as being a separate species in 1971. Like the Whiskered Bat it is small but with relatively long fur. The back is brown, sometimes with a golden sheen, while the underparts are a light grey colour. The face, ears, and wings are dark brown. The inner edge of the ear is paler than those seen in the Whiskered Bat, and is also smaller in size. The wing membranes are narrow. The main features distinguishing the Brandt's Bat from the Whiskered Bat are differences in the shape of the reproductive organs and differences in dentition.
HABITAT- The Brandt's Bat is a woodland living species, with a preference for areas close to water. The summer and nursery roosts are usually in trees, although this species is known to use nest boxes. In winter they hibernate in caves or tunnels in areas with a temperature of between 7 and 8 centigrade. During hibernation they usually hang freely from the ceilings of the hibernacula.
DISTRIBUTION- As the Brandt's Bat was only recognized as a separate species relatively recently, its distribution is still uncertain. It appears to be widespread in Britain, and over much of Central and Northern Europe.
LIFESPAN- up to 20 years.
BEHAVIOUR- The Brandt's Bat hunts at low and medium heights. It is an agile and fast flyer, emerging early, often well before sunset. Hibernation begins in October and lasts until March or April.
BREEDING- Similar to the Whiskered Bats