The Lesser Horseshoe Bat Conservation Handbook: Includes Advice on Greater Horseshoe Bat Conservation

Description:

Second edition. This new edition builds on the widely used 2008 first edition, incorporating over 15 years of new research, fieldwork, and international knowledge exchange led by the Vincent Wildlife Trust (VWT). Drawing on extensive feedback, collaboration with European conservation teams, and experience from workshops and training, the new edition updates and expands the guidance for managing and enhancing roosts.

While some interventions remain familiar, many have been refined or replaced with more effective and sustainable alternatives - such as the removal of ideas that proved less successful, like the cool tower. The handbook also introduces new approaches that address emerging issues, including impacts from artificial night lighting and climate change, and provides a stronger landscape-scale perspective. With deeper engagement across Europe, the handbook now has a clearly pan-European scope.

Emphasizing VWT’s evidence-led approach, the first section provides detailed ecology to support sound decision-making, while acknowledging that every conservation scenario requires adaptation. Although centred on the lesser horseshoe bat, the handbook also offers guidance relevant to greater horseshoe bats, highlighting where roost management techniques can be shared or must be modified for the larger species.