UK Noctule and Leisler's Bat Tree Roost Conservation
Conservation of tree-roosting bat species in UK woodland and urban parks.
Key Facts
Noctule and Leisler's bats both roost in tree cavities including woodpecker holes
Loss of veteran and dead trees removes essential roosting habitat
Both species are migratory within the UK, using different roost sites seasonally
Tree loss in parks and hedgerows has significantly reduced roost site availability
Bat boxes can partially compensate for lost tree cavities but are not full replacements
Welfare Considerations
Tree-roosting bats face welfare risks from veteran tree felling, with ancient tree conservation and bat box provision delivering direct welfare benefits.
What You Can Do
Advocate for veteran tree protection orders in parks and woodlands
Install large-volume bat boxes suitable for noctule and Leisler's bats
Support the Woodland Trust veteran tree protection campaigns