CONSERVATION ISSUES: There are very few records of whiskered bats in Northern Ireland, and indeed Ireland, and the population is considered vulnerable. The main causes of population decline are threats to roost sites, particularly the use of remedial timber treatments, the loss of linear flight lines such as hedgerows and treelines and the loss or degradation of woodland habitats. In addition, the use of pesticides may cause 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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