Family
Vesper bats (Vespertilioninae)
Distribution
The species is widespread across Europe, North Africa, and as far as Japan. It is the most common bat species in Germany.
Appearance
At just 4.5 cm, the common pipistrelle is the smallest native bat species. It has uniformly brown fur, small pointed ears, and dark leathery wings.
Hunting Behavior
Unlike many other bat species, common pipistrelles can be observed hunting in populated areas. However, they prefer to hunt along vegetation features, where they mainly catch insects, particularly flies.
Rearing and Habitat
Young pipistrelles are raised in so-called maternity roosts, which consist of 50-100 bats. These summer roosts are often found behind building facades. The rearing period lasts about four weeks, after which the maternity roosts are abandoned. Males tend to sleep in solitary roosts. Winter roosts are also found in building crevices, cellars, or caves. Mating occurs in autumn, and the females store the sperm for seven to eight months before actual fertilization takes place.
Special Features
Bats navigate using ultrasonic calls, and the frequency of these calls is an important characteristic for identifying species. The common pipistrelle calls within a frequency range of 42 to 49 kHz.
Threats
Bats are generally classified as an endangered species. However, due to its abundance, the common pipistrelle is not considered a “red list species” according to some sources. Nevertheless, the renovation of old buildings, the rise of monotonous agricultural landscapes, and the associated loss of structural elements such as hedges, trees, and orchards are reducing the common pipistrelle’s habitats.
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