Whiskered bat is very similar to Brandt’s bat and the two species were only separated in 1970. Identification requires careful examination by an expert.

Brandt’s bat

Found in buildings, particularly older buildings with stone walls and slate roofs. It is a crevice dweller and will make use of any suitable space to roost.

All year round. In winter whiskered bats are regularly found hibernating in caves and tunnels, almost always in small numbers.

Whiskered bats emerge within half an hour of sunset and probably remain active throughout much of the night feeding on moths, other small insects and spiders. They have a fast and fluttering flight, to a height of 20 metres, generally level with occasional swoops. They glide briefly, especially when feeding in the canopy. They frequently fly along a regular route over or alongside a hedgerow or woodland edge.

Found throughout England, Wales and southern Scotland.

Infrequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.