Bats in Portugal

Bats are fascinating and often misunderstood animals. In Portugal, we are fortunate to host an impressive diversity of these flying mammals. Learning about the bat species that inhabit our country is a crucial step toward their conservation and toward valuing the biodiversity that surrounds us.

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Portugal is home to 29 bat species, all of which are protected under national and European legislation — 27 on the mainland and 2 found only on the islands. These species belong to four major families: Rhinolophidae, Miniopteridae, Molossidae, and Vespertilionidae. Each species has unique traits that suit different habitats across the country, from dense forests to urban environments.

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Bats play a vital role in ecosystems. As natural insect controllers, they help maintain ecological balance by consuming large numbers of mosquitoes and agricultural pests.

 

Getting involved in events such as bat blitzes, talks, and workshops is a great way to contribute to bat conservation and awareness.

 

By deepening our understanding of Portugal’s bats, we not only appreciate their beauty and complexity but also recognize the importance of protecting these valuable allies of our ecosystem. Join us in our mission to conserve Portugal’s rich bat diversity and help ensure that these incredible animals continue to thrive.