The common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) is the UK’s smallest and most widespread bat, and also the one you’re most likely to see.
In fact, the common pipistrelle makes up for around 75% of all bat sightings in Britain. Pipistrelles are often spotted flitting through gardens, woodland edges, and even urban areas at dusk as they hunt for insects.
The UK is home to 17 breeding bat species, from the tiny and widespread common pipistrelle to the much larger noctule and greater horseshoe bats.
How many bats are there in the world?
Scientists estimate there may be as many as a billion bats worldwide, though exact numbers are hard to pin down because of their nocturnal habits, hibernation, and seasonal migrations.
Bats are the second most numerous mammals on Earth, outnumbered only by rodents. They also play a vital role in ecosystems, from keeping insect populations in check to pollinating plants and dispersing seeds around the globe.
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What's the most common bat in the world?
There isn’t a single 'most common' bat species worldwide, as abundance varies by region. In North and South America, the Mexican free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis) is among the most numerous mammals, while in the UK the common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) is the species most frequently seen.
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