Wildlife

Wild Animal Welfare and Bat Conservation Programs

Bat conservation programs address the multiple welfare threats facing bat populations including white-nose syndrome, roost loss, and wind turbine mortality.

Key Facts

UK bat populations showed mixed trends in 2026 with some species recovering and others declining
Bat Conservation Trust coordinates monitoring of 18 bat species through volunteer networks
Roost protection legislation makes it illegal to disturb bat roosts even in renovation projects
White-nose syndrome has not yet reached Europe but surveillance is maintained
Bat hospitals treat thousands of injured and orphaned bats annually across the UK

Welfare Considerations

Bat conservation programs prevent welfare suffering at both individual and population levels. Supporting monitoring, roost protection, and rehabilitation programs protects bat welfare.

What You Can Do

Check for bat roosts before any building renovation or tree works
Support Bat Conservation Trust programs and local bat groups
Install bat boxes to compensate for roost site loss through development