Fauna
Mammal

Mediterranean Horseshoe Bat

Rhinolophus euryale

Also known as Euryale Horseshoe Bat

Mediterranean horseshoe bats are agile nocturnal hunters recognized by the complex, horseshoe-shaped fleshy noseleaf used for precise echolocation. During late spring, females gather in warm maternity colonies inside karst caves to give birth and raise a single pup. Habitat degradation, pesticide usage, and cave disturbances have contributed to steady population declines across Southern Europe.

NocturnalCave DwellerInsectivore
Mediterranean Horseshoe Bat reference
(c) Julien Renoult, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Julien Renoult · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Near ThreatenedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNear ThreatenedRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyMoths, Flies, Beetles
Predators
  • Barn Owl
  • Tawny Owl
  • Domestic Cat
ThreatsDisturbance of roosting caves, pesticide exposure, and loss of woodland foraging grounds
HabitatsKarst caves, underground mines, Mediterranean scrub, and broadleaf woodlands
Life span12–15 years
Classification
  1. FamilyRhinolophidae
  2. SpeciesRhinolophus euryale
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
Can transmit rabies or bite defensively if handled; observe from a distance without disturbing roosts.
Why it is dangerous
Bats carry transmissible pathogens such as rabies and can deliver a sharp defensive bite if touched.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by grey-brown fur, large pointed ears lacking a tragus, and a distinct horseshoe-shaped noseleaf.
What to do
Never attempt to pick up or touch a grounded or roosting bat; contact local wildlife rescuers if animal is injured.
What to notice
Medium-sized bat with pale underparts and a characteristic pointed noseleaf visible at close range.
Support conservation
Avoid entering known maternity or hibernation caves between spring and early autumn.
Responsible observation
  • Roost etiquette: Stay clear of cave entrances at dusk to avoid disrupting emerging foraging flights.
  • Lighting precaution: Refrain from shining bright white flashlights directly into roosting clusters.
  • Observation distance: Watch foraging flights along woodland edges rather than entering roosting caves.
Related species
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