All UK bat species are legally protected and roost in buildings, trees, and underground sites, requiring sensitive management of roost sites by householders, developers, and land managers.
Key Facts
All 18 UK bat species and their roosts are legally protected under Wildlife and Countryside Act
Building development and renovation can damage or destroy bat roosts without adequate survey
Licensed bat workers conduct surveys to identify roosts before development
Common pipistrelle roosts in roof spaces and around windows of modern houses
Bat boxes provide alternative roost sites where natural cavities are limited
Welfare Considerations
Bat roost protection requires legal compliance but also understanding of bat ecology and sensitivity. Planning applications near potential roost sites require bat surveys. Householders discovering bat roosts should seek advice from the Bat Conservation Trust before any works.
What You Can Do
Install bat boxes on south-facing walls or trees in your garden
Contact Bat Conservation Trust before any building work if bats may be present
Join a local bat group to contribute to bat monitoring in your area