Wildlife

UK Leisler's Bat Conservation and Woodland

Conservation of Leisler's bat, the UK's second largest bat species, in woodland and urban habitats.

Key Facts

Leisler's bats are associated with mature woodland and tree roosts
They are more abundant in Ireland than mainland Britain
Urban parks with mature trees support foraging Leisler's bats
Leisler's bats call at a distinctive frequency enabling automated monitoring
UK bat populations are protected under the Conservation of Habitats Regulations

Welfare Considerations

Leisler's bats depend on mature woodland and tree roost sites, with ancient tree and mature woodland conservation directly supporting welfare and population viability.

What You Can Do

Support the Woodland Trust and Wildlife Trust woodland conservation
Install large bat boxes suitable for Leisler's bats in mature woodland
Report Leisler's bat detections to Bat Conservation Trust surveys