Identification of species

  • It is important to try and identify the species of bat in your care. Although this may not be essential for the
    initial care and first aid of the animal it is necessary if you are dealing with a rare or non-native species.
  • A small number of bats in the UK are known to carry European Bat Lyssavirus – this makes it essential to be
    able to identify these species (although health and safety should be considered for all individuals regardless of
    species).
  • Occasionally non-native species are discovered in the UK, having travelled independently or discovered in
    freight and storage that has been transported from abroad. Any non-native species must be kept isolated from all
    other bats. Please call the BCT helpline in this situation for further advice.
  • For more information and help to identify the species in your care (see Further information, support and
    references section for further details):
  • Field Studies Council – A guide to British bats,
  • Dietz & von Helverson – Illustrated identification key to the bats of Europe,
  • Altringham – British bats,
  • Greenaway & Hutson – A field guide to British bats (out of print),
  • Stebbings, Yalden & Herman – Which bat is that? (out of print).