UK's tiny bats prepare for winter hibernation in coming weeks
Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 06:58 · Archive
The UK's 17 breeding bat species are looking for places to roost and hibernate until spring.
The UK's 17 breeding bat species are preparing for winter hibernation, seeking suitable places to roost until spring, according to Cumbria Wildlife Trust. Among Britain's bats is the common pipistrelle, one of the country's most widespread species and frequently spotted hunting around gardens. This tiny mammal measures just 35mm to 45mm from head to body, with a wingspan of around 200mm to 235mm, and weighs between 3g and 8g—comparable to a 20p coin.
At the smaller end of the scale is the Alcathoe bat, which weighs between 3.5g and 5.5g and has a body measuring little more than 3cm. Its weight is comparable to a 1p or 20p coin. The species was only recognised as distinct in 2001 and has subsequently been identified at several UK sites.
In contrast, the noctule is one of Britain's largest bats, weighing between 18g and 40g and boasting a wingspan that can reach 400mm—equivalent to roughly one-and-a-half to just over three £2 coins.
Cumbria Wildlife Trust encouraged people to help bats prepare for hibernation by creating safe roosting spaces. The trust suggested installing a bat box to provide shelter in areas where suitable spaces are limited, helping to encourage bats into gardens and other locations.
How it is being reported
- Tiny UK bats weighing as little as a 1p coin prepare for winter hibernationBats weighing little more than the coins in your pocket are preparing to hunker down for winter.NW Evening Mail · 21 Oct, 06:00
- Tiny UK bats weighing as little as a 1p coin prepare for winter hibernationBats weighing little more than the coins in your pocket are preparing to hunker down for winter.Westmorland Gazette · 21 Oct, 06:00
- Tiny UK bats weighing as little as a 1p coin prepare for winter hibernationBats weighing little more than the coins in your pocket are preparing to hunker down for winter.News & Star · 21 Oct, 06:00
- Tiny UK bats weighing as little as a 1p coin prepare for winter hibernationBats weighing little more than the coins in your pocket are preparing to hunker down for winter.Whitehaven News · 21 Oct, 06:00
In this story: Cumbria Wildlife Trust · United Kingdom · common pipistrelle · Alcathoe bat · noctule
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