Wildlife

Bat Conservation Welfare: Roost Protection and White Nose Syndrome

Overview of UK bat welfare, roost protection, and threats from disease and habitat loss.

Key Facts

All 18 UK bat species are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act
Roost disturbance during building work is the leading legal welfare concern
White Nose Syndrome (Pseudogymnoascus destructans) threatens North American bats but not yet UK
Loss of insect-rich habitat is a major driver of bat population decline
Bat surveys are legally required for many building renovations and developments

Welfare Considerations

UK bat welfare in 2026 requires continued vigilance over roost protection during building renovations, infrastructure development, and agricultural change. Bat populations are sensitive to habitat quality and insect availability. Bat boxes supplement roost sites where buildings are modified. The threat of White Nose Syndrome reaching the UK from North America is a serious emerging welfare and conservation concern.

What You Can Do

Ensure licensed bat surveys are conducted for any building work near bat roosts
Install bat boxes in gardens and woodland to supplement roost availability
Support Bat Conservation Trust and local bat groups for bat monitoring