The Alcathoe whiskered bat (Myotis alcathoe) is a species of small, insectivorous bat belonging to the Vespertilionidae family. It was first discovered and described in Europe in 2001.
The Alcathoe whiskered bat has a distinctive appearance characterized by its size and morphology. It is considered a small bat with a body length ranging from 4.5 to 5.7 centimeters and a wingspan of approximately 24 centimeters. The ears of this bat are relatively short and broad, and its tragus is narrow and pointed. The species is named after the presence of its long, stiff, and greyish-brown whiskers on its muzzle.
Alcathoe whiskered bats are typically found in woodland habitats, often near water bodies, and they have been recorded in various countries across Europe, including Belgium, Germany, France, Hungary, and the Netherlands. They prefer roosting in tree hollows, crevices, and bat boxes. These bats are nocturnal, meaning they are active during the night, feeding on a diet primarily consisting of insects such as moths, beetles, and flies.
Despite being a relatively newly discovered species, the Alcathoe whiskered bat is facing threats, including habitat loss, disturbance, and the use of pesticides in their foraging areas. Consequently, efforts are being made to study and conserve this species, ensuring its continued survival in the wild.
