Bat Appreciation Day is an annual celebration of the importance of bats in our ecosystem. Marked every 17th April, Bat Appreciation Day aims to dispel myths, fears and misconceptions surrounding bats and promote a greater understanding of these fascinating mammals.
Many bat species are facing threats such as habitat loss, disease, and climate change. Bat Appreciation Day provides an opportunity to learn more about these threats and what can be done to protect bats and their habitats.
10 Bat Facts
Contrary to popular belief, most bats are not dangerous to humans and do not transmit diseases like rabies. In fact, bats are gentle and shy creatures that are more likely to avoid humans than harm them! Here are 10 interesting facts about bats in the UK that you may not know…
1. There are 18 species of bat in the UK, and all of them are protected by law.
2. Bats are the only mammals capable of true flight.
3. The smallest bat in the UK is the pipistrelle bat, which weighs just 3-8 grams (less than a £1 coin).
4. The greater mouse-eared bat is the largest bat species in the UK, with a wingspan of up to 45cm.
5. Bats use echolocation to navigate and find their prey. They emit high-pitched sounds that bounce off objects and return to the bat's ears, allowing it to create a mental map of its surroundings.
6. Bats can eat up to 3,000 insects in one night, including mosquitoes, moths and beetles.
7. During hibernation, bats can reduce their heart rate to just a few beats per minute to conserve energy.
Photo: Mike Hammett
8. Bats typically give birth to one or two pups per year, and the young are nursed for several weeks before they can fly and hunt for themselves.
9. Some bat species in the UK, such as the brown long-eared bat, roost in groups in buildings or trees, while others, such as the pipistrelle bat, prefer to roost alone.
10. Bats play an important role in pollinating flowers and dispersing seeds, and they are also important indicators of the health of ecosystems.
Bat Boxes & Bat Detectors
To celebrate Bat Appreciation Day this year, we’re offering 10% off all bat-related products on our site, including a range of bat boxes and bat detectors. Simply use the discount code WELOVEBATS at checkout for 10% off your order!