Mammals
Bechstein's Bat
Myotis bechsteinii · also called Bechstein bat
In an ancient oak wood at night, Bechstein’s bat hovers near a trunk and listens, a long-eared bat that lives only where old trees still hold their hollows.
Overview
Bechstein’s bat, Myotis bechsteinii, is a Near Threatened bat of old broadleaved woodland across western and central Europe. Its long ears, leaf-gleaning, and reliance on tree holes make it one of the clearest indicators of healthy ancient woodland.
A bat that needs old trees
Because Bechstein’s bat moves between many tree-hole roosts, it needs whole woods of mature trees rather than a few isolated ones.
Status
Near Threatened, with a decreasing population tied to the loss of old woodland.
Bechstein's Bat: common questions
Why is Bechstein's bat rare?
It depends on old, mature broadleaved woodland with plenty of tree holes, and that kind of forest has been lost or fragmented.
How does Bechstein's bat find food?
It listens with its long ears and takes insects from leaves, bark, and the ground, as well as in flight.
Where does Bechstein's bat roost?
It roosts in holes in trees, including old woodpecker holes, and moves between roosts often.
Where is Bechstein's bat found?
It lives in old broadleaved woodland in western and central Europe, including southern England.