Brown Long-Eared Bat Welfare: Roosts and Conservation

An evidence-based guide to the welfare needs and conservation challenges of the brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus), one of the UK's most distinctive bat species.

Key Facts

Brown long-eared bats (Plecotus auritus) are among the UK's most widespread bat species but have declined significantly — their distinctive large ears (nearly as long as their body) make them easily identified.
BLE bats roost predominantly in buildings during summer — they use the roof ridge and timber structures in old buildings as maternity roosts for 20-60 females.
BLE bats 'glean' their prey from foliage and surfaces rather than catching insects in flight — they hunt in woodland and orchards, hovering and listening with their extraordinary ears.
Roost loss through building renovation is the primary welfare threat — loss of a maternity roost directly harms dependent pups that cannot yet fly.
BLE bats are particularly sensitive to chemical timber treatment — many organochlorine and pyrethroid timber preservatives used in roof spaces are highly toxic to bats and persist for years.
If planning timber treatment in a building with a bat roost, Natural England must be consulted and approved bat-friendly products used — unauthorized treatment of a bat roost is illegal.
BLE bats are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Habitats Regulations — any intentional disturbance, killing, or destruction of roost sites requires a license.

Welfare Considerations

Brown long-eared bats depend on old buildings and traditional woodland for survival. Building renovation that destroys roosts causes direct welfare harm to dependent pups. Timber treatment must use bat-friendly products only. Report any grounded BLE bat to the Bat Conservation Trust helpline immediately. Maintain traditional orchard and woodland habitat near buildings to support foraging.

What You Can Do

Commission a licensed bat survey before any building renovation or timber treatment
Use only bat-friendly timber treatment products — consult Natural England before treating any roof with bats
Report any grounded or injured BLE bat to the Bat Conservation Trust helpline (0345 1300 228)
Maintain traditional orchard and woodland habitat near buildings to support BLE bat foraging