Wildlife Conservation

Wild Bat Population Monitoring and Conservation

UK bat populations are monitored through the National Bat Monitoring Programme. Most species have recovered since the 1990s but some remain vulnerable to habitat change and roost loss.

Key Facts

The UK is home to 18 bat species, all legally protected under UK and EU legislation
Common pipistrelle populations recovered strongly after organochlorine pesticide bans
Greater horseshoe bats remain restricted to South West England and Wales
Bat roosts in buildings are protected under law and cannot be disturbed without licence
Bat boxes and reduced light pollution support urban bat populations

Welfare Considerations

Bat welfare is inseparable from their conservation status. As legally protected species, bats have state recognition of their welfare significance. Roost protection and insect habitat restoration support both.

What You Can Do

Carry out bat surveys before any building work affecting potential roost sites
Install bat boxes in gardens and on buildings to increase roost availability
Reduce light pollution near bat commuting routes and roost sites