British Bats
Leisler's Bat Nyctalus leisleri
| BAT STATS Head-Body Length- 5-7cm Weight- 10-20g Wingspan- 33-46cm Tail Length- 3.5-5cm |
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DESRCIPTION- The Leisler's Bat is very similar in appearance and habits to the Noctule Bat. It is also known as the Lesser Noctule, and as the name implies it is slightly smaller than the Noctule. Its coat colour is also different; it does not possess the deep rich reddish coat colour of the Noctule, its fur being noticeably paler. The wing membranes, face and ears are dark brown. The hair is shaggier over the shoulder area. The ears are short and rounded, the outer edges having 3 to 4 transverse folds. The tragus is short and semi-circular in shape. The muzzle is broad. The Leisler's Bat is a fast flyer that flies high over trees, the wings being long and narrow and well designed for fast flight. The calcar reaches half way along the tail membrane. The Juveniles are much darker in colouration.
DISTRIBUTION- In Britain the Leisler's Bat has a patchy distribution, only being found in central England and Wales. It is more widespread in Ireland, where it replaces the Noctule Bat. In Europe it is mainly found in the south and central areas.
HABITATS- It has a very similar lifestyle to the Noctule Bat. It is mainly woodland living species, and roosts in tree hollows both during the summer and winter. It is a migratory species able to travel considerable distances.
BREEDING- Mating occurs in autumn. The males become very territorial and set up mating roosts with harems of 6 to 9 females. Maternity roosts with 20 to 50 females are established in tree holes in April. The site is changed frequently with the mother carrying the young to the new site on the wing. A single young is born in June; it is weaned at 6 weeks.
BEHAVIOUR- Leisler's Bats emerge just before sunset to feed; they fly quickly and high to catch insects on the wing, often at heights in excess of 30 metres. Hibernation is from September to April.
LIFESPAN- 8 to 9 years.