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This is the biggest Irish bat, and like
the Pipistrelle, is often found in buildings. The Leisler's has quite
a distinctive level flight, at about treetop height, from which it
dives down after large moths and beetles. It can be seen soon after
sunset flying over open spaces such as parks and fields. Because it
is one of the first bats to emerge in the evening and is quite large,
the Leisler's may be confused with Swifts which are still flying around.
They are best told apart by wing shape - the Swift's wings are smoothly
curved and scimitar-like - and by the shrieking of the Swifts. Ireland
is an internationally important stronghold for Leisler's Bats, probably
because competing species, such as the Noctule, are not found here
(or are they? see below!). Although endangered in an international
context, the Leisler's appears to be holding its own in Ireland. |
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