Lesser Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus hipposideros

This bat belongs to a different family to all the other Irish species. The Lesser Horseshoe Bat belongs to the Rhinolophidae family, while the others belong to the Vespertilionidae family. It differs from the Vespertilionid bats in that it has a number of flaps or folds of skin around its nostrils that form a horseshoe shape. It hangs freely by its feet and wraps its wings around its body, the only Irish species to do so. Its range in Ireland is limited to six western counties - Clare, Cork, Galway, Kerry, Limerick and Mayo. It roosts mainly in roofs of old houses or in outhouses, stables or old cottages. In winter this species hibernates in caves, disused cellars, mines and souterrains. The Irish population of this species is estimated at 9,500 individuals and is considered of International Importance because it has declined dramatically and become extinct in many other parts of Europe. The Lesser Horseshoe Bat usually forages in woodland and scrub.