Bechstein's bat  (Myotis bechsteinii)

This species is rare in the UK with only one maternity roost and fewer than 20 hibernation roosts known at present. The population is estimated to be in the region of 1500 (3). The threats currently facing this species are not understood but it is vulnerable to loss and fragmentation of open old-growth broadleaved woodlands and disturbance or loss of roost sites (3).

This species is listed under English Nature's Species Recovery Programme, which includes a scheme that provides and monitors bat boxes for this species in Dorset and Wiltshire where there is a lack of roosting sites. Some hibernation sites occur within SSSIs, others have been protected against disturbance. Bechstein's bat is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The Action Plan for this species aims to maintain the known range and population level, and improve the age structure of woodlands to maximise roosting and foraging chances (3).