Head to head
Leisler's Bat vs Noctule
Leisler's Bat
VS Noctule
Leisler's bat is known as the lesser noctule because it looks like a smaller version of the noctule, and the two share the same fast, high-flying, tree-roosting lifestyle.
| Leisler's Bat | Noctule | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Nyctalus leisleri | Nyctalus noctula |
| Relationship | A smaller version of the noctule, known as the lesser noctule | The larger of the two species |
| Coat | Glossy brown coat with long, narrow wings | Glossy golden to chestnut-brown fur and long, narrow wings |
| Flight | Fast and high over woodland and open country, often emerging early in the evening | Flies high and fast in open air, and often appears while it is still light |
| Roost | Mainly tree holes, and also bat boxes and buildings | Mainly tree holes, but also bat boxes and buildings |
| Stronghold | Common in Ireland, which holds some of the largest populations in Europe, but scarce in Britain | Not specifically documented |
| Migration | Some individuals travel long distances between summer and winter areas | Some populations travel hundreds of kilometres between summer and winter roosts |
| Conservation status | Least Concern, though declining in parts of its range | Least Concern, dependent on mature trees with holes |
Leisler's Bat vs Noctule: common questions
Why is Leisler's bat called the lesser noctule?
It looks like a smaller version of the noctule, which is a larger bat of similar build.
Where is Leisler's bat common?
It is common in Ireland, which holds some of the largest populations in Europe, but scarce in Britain.
Where do Leisler's bat and the noctule roost?
Both roost mainly in tree holes, and also use bat boxes and buildings.