Bat survey

Do you need a bat survey to support zoning, construction, or an environmental permit? Ecobio conducts expert bat surveys throughout Finland.

Ask for an offer here!

Bats (Chiroptera) in Finland

In Finland, there are seven established bat species. All of them are listed in Annex IV (a) of the EU Habitats Directive and are therefore strictly protected under the Nature Conservation Act.

The established bat species in Finland are:

• Northern bat (Eptesicus nilssonii)
• Daubenton’s bat (Myotis daubentonii)
• Whiskered bat (Myotis mystacinus)
• Brandt’s bat (Myotis brandtii)
• Natterer’s bat (Myotis nattereri)
• Brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus)
• Nathusius’ pipistrelle (Pipistrellus nathusii)

Destroying or degrading breeding and resting sites of these species is prohibited, which makes appropriate surveys an essential part of project planning. In addition, Finland is a party to the EUROBATS agreement.

Why are bat surveys necessary?

Legal obligation: bats are strictly protected. Authorities often require a survey before zoning or construction decisions.

Risk management: a timely and high-quality bat survey helps anticipate project delays and avoid unexpected costs.

Ecological responsibility: bats are an ecologically important group. Their feeding areas, commuting routes, and roosting sites are often sensitive to disturbances caused by land use.

When and where is a bat survey conducted?

Bats are found across nearly all of Finland, with the exception of northernmost Lapland. The need for a bat survey should always be assessed when the area includes forest or park-like environments. Water bodies and buildings often increase the value of an area for bats.

The best time for a survey is from June to August, when bats are active and maternity colonies can be observed. The need for a survey should be assessed well in advance of the field season to ensure that fieldwork can begin at the appropriate time if required.

This is how a bat survey is carried out at Ecobio

1. Starting assessment – preparation of the final fieldwork plan based on map review and background information.
2. Fieldwork – night-time active observation and the use of passive recorders left in the field.
3. Analysis – species identification from recordings and delineation of bat areas based on observations.
4. Report and recommendations – clear maps, spatial data, and proposed measures for the authorities involved.

Why choose Ecobio for a bat survey?

• Extensive experience in bat surveys carried out in line with recommendations
• Skilled expert team and modern equipment
• Reports that meet authority requirements
• Quick readiness and nationwide coverage in Finland
• Option to combine bat surveys with other ecological studies

Contact us and order a bat survey

Order a bat survey from Ecobio and ensure the smooth progress of your project.

Request more information and ask for an offer here.