Protected species: bats
Ten species of bat are found in Scotland – and all of them receive the highest protection possible.
Ten species of bat are found in Scotland – and all of them receive the highest protection possible.
There is no change to the protection of European protected species as a result of EU Exit.
All bat species found in Scotland are classed as European protected species. They receive full protection under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended).
You can see our summary of offences in relation to these protected species below. For the definitive list of offences, you should consult the actual legislation.
Discover more about bats found in Scotland.
For any wild bat species, it is an offence to deliberately or recklessly:
It’s also an offence to:
Licensing allows named individuals to carry out actions that could otherwise constitute an offence. If you’re planning any activities that could affect bats or their roosts, you must make sure you stay within the law.
Find out about bats and licensing.
Learn more about licensing.
You can contact our helpline if you have bats in your home and they are causing a public health and safety issue. Find out more about the Bats in Houses service.
Telephone: 01463 725 165
Email: [email protected]
For minor or major home developments, renovations and repairs that could have an impact on roosting bats, see Bats: licences for development.
To report an injured or grounded bat, call the Bat Conservation Trust helpline on 0845 1300 228 or the SSPCA on 0300 0999 999.
Protected species known to occur naturally in Scotland and their protection
If you already have a licence number, include it in the subject line of your email, or have it to hand when you call.