We have good populations of bats throughout most of our area. Our knowledge of these mainly nocturnal creatures is largely due to the network of voluntary bat groups in Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside. For more information on these groups and on bats generally see the website of the Bat Conservation Trust.

Common Pipistrelle - This is our smallest and most widespread species of bat, and the most frequently seen in gardens.

Soprano Pipistrelle - This looks just the same as the Common Pipistrelle but its "song" is at a higher pitch; hence the name. It also has a greater preference for areas around rivers.

Noctule - This is our and Britain's largest species of bat. It often roosts in tree-holes.

Brown Long-eared Bat - The name accurately describes the bat. It feeds mainly on moths.

Whiskered Bat - This species is perhaps more common in our area than many other parts the country, as is the very similar Brandt's Bat.

Daubenton's Bat - This species particularly frequents rivers and wetlands, where it preys on midges. It often roosts under old stone bridges.

Further information on Bats can be found here