Mammals
Nathusius's Pipistrelle
Pipistrellus nathusii · also called Nathusius pipistrelle
In autumn, a Nathusius’s pipistrelle weighing less than a few coins sets out from the Baltic coast and flies for weeks toward warmer winter quarters, a migration longer than that of many birds.
Overview
Nathusius’s pipistrelle, Pipistrellus nathusii, is a Least Concern bat found across much of Europe and parts of western Asia. Its record-breaking migrations, waterside hunting, and tree-hole song roosts make it one of the most remarkable travellers among European bats.
A tiny long-distance traveller
Few mammals of this size travel so far, which makes the species a favourite subject for scientists tracking how bats move across borders.
Status
Least Concern, widespread, though migrating bats face hazards such as wind turbines.
Nathusius's Pipistrelle: common questions
How far does Nathusius's pipistrelle migrate?
Journeys of over two thousand kilometres have been recorded, making it one of Europe's longest-distance bats.
Where does Nathusius's pipistrelle spend the summer?
It spends summer in northeastern Europe and travels to the southwest of the continent for winter.
Why do migrating bats come to Britain?
Some cross the North Sea, and migrants may follow coastlines and river valleys on their journeys.
Where is Nathusius's pipistrelle found?
It lives in woodland and wetlands across much of Europe and parts of western Asia.