The pipistrele is the most active of British bats, being in abundance from March through to October, and even feeding on winter nights where the temperature is high enough. They are the most likely species to be encountered, this is partly because they are known to travel as much as 3 miles for feeding, and are therefore can be seen in built up areas, which aren't necessarily close to their roosts. They are also, however, prone to roosting in the roof space of houses, as their small size allows them to fit through the smallest of gaps. Again, therefore, this adds to the likelihood of them being spotted in suburban areas. They feed on moths and small insects, often venturing out for more than one trip throughout the evening and night, and a pipistrelle can eat several thousand insects in one 24 hour period.

Sound File:

45 kHz

Description:

They are the smallest British bat. They have reddish-brown or dark brown fur on their backs, and their underside is a paler yellow-brown colour. Their ears are short, triangular and a darker brown/black colour, similar to the colour of their wings and nose.

Weight:

Minimum

Maximum

3 g

8 g

Lifespan:

Maximum

16 years

Size:

Length

Wingspan

40 mm

200 mm