Barbastella

Barbastella is a genus of bats belonging to the family Vespertilionidae. The genus currently contains two recognized species: Barbastella barbastellus and Barbastella leucomelas. These bats are commonly known as barbastelles or barbastelle bats.

Barbastella barbastellus, the European barbastelle, is found across Europe and parts of North Africa. Barbastella leucomelas, the Caucasian barbastelle, inhabits a range extending from the Caucasus region eastward into Central Asia. Both species are medium-sized bats with distinctive flattened snouts and broad ears. Their fur is typically dark brown to black.

These bats are primarily insectivorous, feeding on flying insects caught in flight. They are nocturnal hunters, emerging at dusk to forage. Barbastelles often roost in tree cavities, old buildings, and rock crevices. During the day, they remain hidden and inactive. Their echolocation calls are relatively high in frequency, aiding them in navigating and locating prey in their environment.

Conservation status varies between the two species. Barbastella barbastellus is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as disturbance at roost sites. Barbastella leucomelas is less well-studied, but concerns regarding habitat changes also exist. Research into their ecology and conservation is ongoing to better understand and protect these unique bats.