Lesser Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus hipposideros

The Lesser Horseshoe Bat is a small bat species widely distributed across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, including parts of the Indian subcontinent and the Himalayan region. It is commonly found in forested areas, caves, abandoned mines, and human-made structures at elevations ranging from lowlands to over 3,000 meters.

This bat is named for the horseshoe-shaped structure on its nose, which aids in echolocation. It is one of the smallest horseshoe bat species, with a wingspan of about 19–25 cm and a body length of 3.5–4.5 cm. It weighs between 5–9 grams and has soft, brownish-grey fur with paler underparts. The wings are broad and rounded, allowing for slow, maneuverable flight in cluttered environments like forests.

The Lesser Horseshoe Bat feeds primarily on small insects such as moths, flies, and beetles, which it catches during flight using echolocation. It is a nocturnal species, roosting during the day in caves, trees, or buildings and emerging at dusk to forage. It hibernates in cool, humid caves during winter and prefers warm, sheltered roosts for breeding in summer.

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Not Defined

CITES: Not Defined