Wildlife

UK Bat Conservation and Roost Protection Welfare

All UK bat species and their roosts are legally protected, with welfare implications for both bats disturbed during roost surveys and those affected by development.

Key Facts

17 breeding bat species in UK all protected under Wildlife and Countryside Act
Bats use buildings, trees and underground structures for roosts
Maternity colonies gather in warm spaces from May to August
Roost destruction during building work can kill bats directly
Licensed bat workers must be involved in any work affecting bat roosts

Welfare Considerations

Disturbance during maternity season can cause young bats to be abandoned or die from cold. Development that destroys roosts causes direct mortality and permanent loss of colony habitat that may have been used for generations. Bat-sensitive design can accommodate both development and bat welfare.

What You Can Do

Commission a bat survey before undertaking roost works
Support local bat groups with volunteer roost monitoring
Install bat boxes in gardens and on buildings
Report suspected illegal roost disturbance to Natural England and police