Brandt’s Bat

Myotis brandtii

LISTEN TO THE BAT

Introduction

Brandt’s bat is very similar to the whiskered bat and was only recognised as a separate species in 1970. Both are small species with somewhat shaggy fur – the Brandt’s bat is slightly larger than the whiskered bat. The two species are most reliably differentiated through dentition and penis shape. Other distinguishing features are thought to include tragus shape and claw length. Brandt’s bats emerge soon after sunset and feed through the night at low heights in woodland and near water.

Head & body length:

3.8 – 5 cm

Forearm length:

3.1 – 3.9 cm

Wingspan:

21 – 24 cm

Weight:

4.5 – 9.5 g

Average colony size:

20 – 60

Lifespan:

40 year maximum

Colour:

Fur, dark grey or brown, golden tips on back, greyish underneath. Face and base of ears often pinkish.


Conservation Status

Reasonably common.

Roost sites

buildings with stone walls and/or slate roofs

Diet

moths, other small insects and spiders

Echolocation

best heard at 45khz