serotine

The serotine, or common serotine, is a bat species scientifically named Eptesicus serotinus in the family Vespertilionidae. It is native to Europe and parts of western Asia. The name serotinus derives from Latin, roughly meaning late or evening, reflecting its nocturnal habits.

It is a medium-sized bat with brown fur and a stocky body. Wings are adapted for powerful, agile flight. Serotines roost in a variety of sites, including buildings, tree hollows, caves, and crevices, and may form small colonies; they typically seek sheltered roosts in summer and hibernate in winter.

They are insectivorous and hunt over open ground at dusk and during the night, feeding on moths, beetles, and other flying insects. They use ultrasonic echolocation to detect prey and navigate in darkness.

Reproduction occurs in spring or early summer; females gather in maternity roosts and give birth to one or two young after a gestation period. Juveniles learn to fly and hunt with their mothers and reach independence after a few weeks.

Conservation status: The IUCN lists the common serotine as Least Concern due to its wide distribution and relatively stable population. Threats include habitat loss, disturbance of roosts, and wind-energy development, which can affect roosting and foraging sites.

In human contexts, serotines are valued for insect control but may be considered a nuisance when roosts are in buildings. They are protected in many countries, and roost protection and habitat management are common conservation measures.