UK Wildlife

UK Bat Conservation 2026

A review of UK bat conservation in 2026, covering population trends, roost protection, disease surveillance, and the ongoing threats from development and agricultural intensification.

Key Facts

UK has 18 breeding bat species with populations showing mixed trends
Greater horseshoe bat and Bechstein's bat remain priority conservation species
Roost destruction during development remains a welfare and conservation concern
White-nose syndrome from North America has not yet reached UK but surveillance continues
Bat conservation requires cross-sectoral engagement from planning, agriculture, and lighting

Welfare Considerations

UK bat conservation welfare requires protection of roost sites, foraging habitat maintenance, and appropriate lighting management. The planning system is the most important intervention point for roost protection. Bat groups contribute essential survey data for conservation planning decisions.

What You Can Do

Support Bat Conservation Trust and local bat groups with donations and volunteering
Join bat surveys to contribute to population monitoring and conservation planning
Advocate for bat-sensitive lighting design in development and infrastructure projects