From Dusk Until Dawn- Pipistrelle Bat

Latin name: Pipistrellus pipistrellus

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Image of a pipistrelle bat courtesy of Milos Andera


The common pipistrelle is small bat with a huge distribution. Its range extends from the British Isles and Western Europe all the way to the far-east as far as the Korean Peninsula, whilst the airborne mammal also has strongholds in North Africa. It is the most common and widespread species of bat to be found in the British Isles.

Common pipistrelle can be observed in a variety of different habitats mainly comprising of areas of woodland, hedgerows, farmland and urban areas. In summer, the bats tend to roost in small crevices and therefore the roof tiles, roofing and wall cavities of houses is ideal for such a purpose. In a more rural environment, the species prefers to roost in tree holes or bat boxes provided for them.

A small species of bat, the common pipistrelle measures approximately 35-45mm from in head and body length. Its wingspan however, is much greater measuring about 20-24cm in length. Pipistrelles are extremely light mammals and can weigh as little as 3-4 grams. Its body fur is of a soft brown colouration, although the bat possesses a darkened face and nose. It is not to be confused with another native pipistrelle species, the soprano pipistrelle, despite being very similar in appearance and commonality. The method of identifying the difference between the two species is to record their calling frequencies, with the soprano pipistrelle possessing the higher pitch call.

The bat's preferred hunting location appears to be along the periphery of woodland and tree lines and it emerges to hunt from dusk onwards. Common pipistrelles are insectivores, with their particular favourite meals consisting of a mix of mayflies and mosquitoes as well as lacewings. The species is renowned for its voracity, with its ability to consume up to 3000 insects in one night duly noted.

Courtship is instigated by the male, who attracts female attention by creating and utilising a courtship territory, which will typically measure up to about 200 metres in diameter. These territories are maintained from the summer months until around about October, with mating usually taking place in a flurry of activity during the summer. Once pregnant, females often form maternity colonies in order to safeguard the juvenile bats as well as themselves. They will give birth to a single young, which is fed exclusively upon its mother's milk for the next 3-4 weeks. At six weeks, the young are able to fly themselves and will have to forage for their own food.

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