British Bats
Nathusius Pipistrelle Pipistrellus nathisii
| BAT STATS Head-body Length- 44-58mm Wingspan- 220-250mm Tail Length- 30-44mm |
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DESCRIPTION- Another species belonging to the pipistrellus genus is the Nathusius Pipistrelle. In appearance it resembles the Common Pipistrelle, the only difference being that it is slightly larger, and that its coat tends to be more redy-brown in colour. The length of its coat may also be longer, and the wing membrane broader. Its flight is rapid but it is more agile than the other pipistrelles.
HABITATS- It is predominantly a woodland living bat, but it can also be seen over farmland and parkland. It is often seen close to rivers. The Nathusius Pipistrelle does not visit human habitations as much as the other pipistrelle species. The summer roosts are normally in tree holes and cavities. The winter roosts are found in tree holes or caves. Although it does migrate.
DISTRIBUTION- The Nathusisus Pipistrelle has only a patchy distribution in western Europe, but in central and eastern Europe it is much more widespread. Historically the Nathusius Pipistrelle was thought not to be found in Britain. But it has been seen a number of times in the past 50 years and it is thought it may hibernate here. The recent discovery of a maturity roost indicates it is now a year round inhabitant of Britain. Although only present in very small numbers it may be extending its range into Britain.
BREEDING- Mating occurs in autumn. Nursery colonies of 50 to 200 females are established in April and May. Young are born in April and May. The young can fly within 3 week's of age. The juveniles are a dark grey-brown colour.
BEHAVIOUR- This is a migratory species, known to travel over 1000km in some cases. It migrates from Eastern Europe and Russia to Western Europe each autumn in August and September, returning to the summer feeding grounds in April and May. During the mating season the males establish territories in which they defend a harem of females. It emerges shortly after dusk to feed on flying insects, which it catches, by flying at between 4 and 15 m above the ground.