Eptesicus serotinus
Introduction
The serotine is one of Britain’s largest bat species and usually one of the first to appear in the evening, often emerging in good light. Its broad wings and a leisurely, highly manoeuvrable flapping flight with occasional short glides or steep descents are distinctive. Serotines forage over a range of open habitats such as pasture, parkland, woodland edge and are also often found in suburban areas.
Head & body length:
Forearm length:
Wingspan:
Weight:
Average colony size:
Lifespan:
Colour:
Fur dark brown above, pale underneath, with black face and ears.
Conservation Status
One of the UK’s less common species
Roost sites
Buildings with high gables and cavity walls
Diet
In spring, mainly flies and moths. In summer, chafers and dung beetles
Echolocation
can best be heard at 25 to 30kHz