Fauna - Bats

Bats are a crucial part of the ecosystem. Based on the number of recorded species, Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the richest countries in Europe when it comes to these mammals.

The Blasius Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus blasii) is the rarest horseshoe bat in Europe. In this part of the Dinarides, its only known mainland colony is located near Mostar, in the Prosječenica Cave on Podveležje. It has soft fur that is grey-brown on its back and almost white on its belly. The Lesser Horseshoe Bat(Rhinolophus hipposideros) is the smallest bat species in Europe and is highly endangered. Its upper body is grey-brown with a slight reddish tone, while its underside is grey to greyish-white. It is recognizable by the shape of its nose, which resembles a horseshoe. The Common noctule (Nyctalus noctula) is a large bat with broad, rounded ears that migrates from Central Europe to the Mediterranean. It has short reddish-brown fur on its back, while the chest is somewhat lighter in colour. Its wings are long and narrow, especially at the tips. In early August, male bats establish mating shelters, sing, and attract females who can give birth to one or two offspring. The Mediterranean long-eared bat (Plecotus kolombatovici) is associated with the Adriatic region. It has remarkably large ears that it uses for orientation and prey detection. It has a completely furred face and chin, and brown fur on its back. In flight, it is agile and can manoeuvre in tight spaces to catch its prey.

(Željka Šaravanja)