Bats are amongst our most fascinating and enigmatic wild animals. We still know very little about most of our species. What we do know however is that populations of all our commoner species have decreased greatly over the last 60 years. One species recently became extinct in Britain and others are now seriously endangered. The Herts and Middx Bat Group are working to further bat conservation in Hertfordshire and Middlesex. We also provide advice and information for householders and landowners and hope that you find our website a useful resource. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have a bat related query.
This site was last updated on 10 May 2013 [Bats Life, and Events]
PLEASE NOTE THAT AS OF 28 NOVEMBER 2012 THE HELPLINE NUMBER HAS CHANGED TO 07517 123200. This number should now only be used for bat welfare emergencies requiring swift intervention e.g. finding a bat in need of care. All other enquiries should be done by email. Thank you.
The bat pictured above is a Nathusius' pipistrelle
For non-urgent or general enquiries concerning the Group and bats please email us on:
May is a busy month for bats particularly females who are finding suitable nursery roosts and establishing their maternity colonies. Some species will be returning to sites used in previous years (perhaps used over many years), whilst others may be using a roost for the first time or after a long period of absence.
For pregnant bats gestation will last from 40-50 days (smaller species such as pipistrelles) up to 70 days (larger species such as Noctule). Most babies arrive from mid-June onwards (before the end of May in favourable years: This year has not been favourable!) Males will be largely separate in their own roosts (individually or in small groups) and are not involved in the raising of young.
If you find a small bat before the end of May it is unlikely to be a baby unless it is completely without fur. Check out our new page on identifying bats which may assist in determining what age and species of bat you have found.
If you have found a bat which you believe may require help (i.e. one that’s grounded, in the open during daylight hours, caught by a cat, or within the living area of your property) then please call us on 07517 123200 at the very first opportunity rather than using email. We can respond much quicker and we'll guide you through some immediate steps which will reduce your concerns and greatly increase the bat's chance of survival and recovery. Grounded bats in particular need protection from cats and inclement weather as soon as possible. If you find a bat flying around inside your property please refer to the ‘Need help with a bat?’ section of the website.
