What If Your Property Has Rare Bats?

Finding bats on your property can come as a surprise, especially if the species present is less commonly recorded in Scotland. While pipistrelles are the bats most people see, several other species live here too. These include Nathusius’ pipistrelles, Leisler’s bats, noctules, whiskered bats, Brandt’s bats, and Natterer’s bats. These species may use buildings, trees, or surrounding habitats in ways that are not immediately obvious.

If you discover or suspect that your property may support one of Scotland’s rarer bat species, here is what you need to know.

Rare bats do not stop projects

One of the most common concerns is that rare species will make work impossible. This is not the case. Properties with rare bats can still undergo repairs, upgrades, extensions, and other improvements. The main difference is that more careful planning may be required to understand how the bats are using the site.

Ecologists help guide this process so that work can continue safely and responsibly.

Why these bats need extra consideration

Different bat species have different needs. For example:

• Nathusius’ pipistrelles may travel long distances and are often recorded near large waterbodies.

• Leisler’s bats and noctules fly high and fast, often using tree holes for roosting.

• Whiskered bats, Brandt’s bats, and Natterer’s bats prefer sheltered woodland edges and may roost in tight crevices or older buildings.

Because their behaviours differ from pipistrelles, ecologists must ensure that roosts and flight routes are properly understood before work begins.

What to do if you think you have rare bats

If you have noticed signs of bats, such as droppings, entry points, or evening activity, the best step is to contact a licensed ecologist for advice. They can assess the species involved and explain whether any surveys are required.

Specialist surveys are only carried out during the bat survey season, between 1 May and 30 September. At least one activity survey must be completed before the end of August, and surveys must be spaced by several weeks. Early conversations help avoid delays.

How surveys help

Surveys determine:

• which species are present

• whether a roost exists

• how bats use the building or surrounding area

• what steps can help protect them while allowing work to continue

For rare species, surveys may pay particular attention to roost access points, surrounding habitat, and evening flight height.

Mitigation supports both people and wildlife

If work could affect bats or their roosts, ecologists may recommend simple measures such as adjusting the timing of works, protecting roost spaces, retaining tree lines, or reducing lighting. In some cases, a licence may be required. This blog does not provide legal advice, but it is helpful to know that licensing is a routine part of responsible ecological planning.

Mitigation ensures that both the project and the bats are protected.

Living alongside Scotland’s rarer bats

Rare bats can be exciting to encounter, and their presence often highlights the ecological value of an area. With the right guidance, homeowners can complete their projects while also supporting the conservation of species that are less frequently recorded in Scotland.

If you think your property may support rare bats, seeking advice early is the best way to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.

References

Bat Conservation Trust 2023. Bats in Britain: Species Profiles. Bat Conservation Trust, London.
NatureScot 2020. Bats: Licensing and Guidance. NatureScot, Inverness.
Scottish Government 2019. Wildlife Crime and Protected Species. Scottish Government, Edinburgh.