CONSERVATION ISSUES: As Daubenton's bats feed primarily over water, some forms of water pollution may have a detrimental effect on bat populations. However, there is some evidence to show that populations are increasing in Europe due to the eutrophication of lakes, rivers and ponds which result in an increase in the abundance of prey items. Loss, disturbance and destruction of roosts, including the loss of roosts during bridge maintenance and strengthening work also affects this species. In addition the loss of linear flight lines such as hedgerows and treelines which bats use to commute and occasionally forage may result in population declines.

Protecting Legislation:

• Schedules 5, 6 and 7 of the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985
• Annex IV of the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (Habitats and Species Directive).
• Appendix II of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (1979)
• Included under the Agreement on the Conservation of Bats in Europe (1991)
  

© Jon Russ 2001. Text refereed by Angela Ross & Lynne Rendle.

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