Mammals
Noctule
Nyctalus noctula · also called common noctule, noctule bat
High above a European meadow in the golden evening light, a noctule sweeps back and forth on long, narrow wings, one of the first bats of the night to take to the sky.
Overview
The noctule, Nyctalus noctula, is a Least Concern bat of woodland, parkland, and open country across Europe and Asia. Its large size, high fast flight, and tree-hole roosts make it one of the most striking bats in the Old World.
A bat of the open sky
Unlike many small bats that hunt close to vegetation, the noctule chases large insects in open air high above the ground.
Status
Least Concern, widespread, though dependent on mature trees with holes.
Noctule: common questions
Why is the noctule often seen early in the evening?
It often emerges while it is still light and flies high and fast in open air.
Where does the noctule roost?
It roosts mainly in tree holes, but also uses bat boxes and buildings.
Does the noctule migrate?
Some populations travel hundreds of kilometres between summer and winter roosts.
Where is the noctule found?
It lives in woodland, parkland, and open country across much of Europe and Asia.