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The huge ears of this attractive bat
are its most distinctive feature - they're almost as long as the body!
Although they are probably quite common in Ireland, it is difficult
to see Long-eared Bats because they tend to fly amongst the foliage
of tree canopies, picking moths and other insects off the leaves.
These bats emit their echolocation sounds through their nose, and
are thus very quiet, earning them the nickname of "whispering bats".
Larger prey items, such as noctuid moths, are taken to a feeding perch,
often in a porch or outhouse. These perches are recognisable by the
piles of insect remains, such as moth wings, which collect under them.
Long-eared Bats favour open deciduous woodland, and may roost in tree
holes or houses. They have even been found in birdboxes! |
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