Bats are fascinating creatures that are often misunderstood. They have been the subject of many myths and legends throughout history. In the UK, there are 17 different species of bats, and each has its own unique dietary requirements. In this article, we will explore what UK bats eat.
Insectivorous bats
The majority of UK bats are insectivorous, which means they feed on insects. Insects are a high-energy food source that provides bats with the energy they need for flight. Insectivorous bats have a diverse diet, feeding on a variety of insects, including moths, beetles, flies, and mosquitoes.
Common pipistrelle bat
One of the most common UK bats is the common pipistrelle bat, which is also one of the smallest. Pipistrelles are insectivorous and feed on a variety of flying insects, including midges, moths, and beetles. They have been known to eat up to 3,000 insects in a single night.
Noctule bat
The noctule bat is the largest bat species in the UK and is also insectivorous. Noctules feed on a variety of insects, including beetles, moths, and flying ants. They are known to fly at high altitudes, up to 400 meters above the ground, to catch their prey.
Brown long-eared bat
The brown long-eared bat is another insectivorous species found in the UK. They are known for their distinctive long ears, which they use to locate their prey. Brown long-eared bats feed on moths, flies, and beetles, and are known to catch their prey in flight.
Daubenton’s bat
Daubenton’s bat is a specialist insectivore that feeds on insects found on the surface of water. They have a unique feeding technique, which involves using their feet to scoop up insects from the water’s surface. Daubenton’s bats feed on a variety of insects, including midges, mosquitoes, and mayflies.
Frugivorous bats
Frugivorous bats are a relatively rare species in the UK, and they feed on fruit and nectar. Their diet is high in sugar, which provides them with the energy they need for flight. Frugivorous bats are important pollinators, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
Common fruit bat
The common fruit bat is a frugivorous species found in Africa and Asia. They feed on a variety of fruit, including mangoes, bananas, and figs. Common fruit bats are also important pollinators and play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
Nectar-feeding bats
Nectar-feeding bats are another rare species in the UK, and they feed on nectar from flowers. Their diet is high in sugar, which provides them with the energy they need for flight. Nectar-feeding bats are important pollinators, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
Lesser long-nosed bat
The lesser long-nosed bat is a nectar-feeding species found in Central America and Mexico. They feed on the nectar of agave plants, which is used to make tequila. Lesser long-nosed bats are important pollinators of agave plants and play a crucial role in the production of tequila.
Conclusion
In conclusion, UK bats have a diverse diet, with the majority of species feeding on insects. Some species are frugivorous, feeding on fruit and nectar, while others are nectar-feeding, feeding on nectar from flowers. Each species has its own unique dietary requirements, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. It is important to protect these fascinating creatures and their habitats to ensure their survival.