Pipistrelles in France: where do these essential little bats live?

Bats are as fascinating as they are intriguing. Yet, behind their mysterious image lies precious allies for our gardens and ecosystems. Among them, pipistrelles are some of the most widespread species in France.

Thanks to data from the National Action Plan for Chiroptera, it is possible to better understand their distribution across French territory and the evolution of certain species.

The pipistrelle: a very common bat in France

In mainland France, the term "pipistrelle" refers to several distinct species of small bats.

The two main species observed are:

• the Common Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus);
• Kuhl's Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus kuhlii).

Although they are similar, their geographical distribution differs slightly.

The Common Pipistrelle: the most widespread in France

The Common Pipistrelle is currently the most abundant bat species in French territory.

It is distinguished by its exceptional adaptability:

• forests;
• gardens;
• city centers;
• attics;
• urban parks.

This species occupies almost all of mainland France.

Illustration: Distribution map of the Common Pipistrelle

A species perfectly adapted to urban environments

Contrary to popular belief, pipistrelles greatly appreciate urban environments.

Public lighting attracts many nocturnal insects, providing an abundant food source. Old buildings, attics, or cracks in walls also provide ideal refuges.

This adaptability explains why the Common Pipistrelle is present almost everywhere in France.

Kuhl's Pipistrelle: spectacular expansion northward

Formerly primarily present around the Mediterranean basin, Kuhl's Pipistrelle has been making significant progress northwards in the country for several decades.

This evolution is explained in particular by:

• climate warming;
• urbanization;
• the presence of insects around nocturnal lighting.

Today, the species has become common in a large part of France.

Illustration: Distribution map of Kuhl's Pipistrelle

Areas still less occupied

Despite this rapid expansion, some regions remain sparsely colonized.

The areas in the northeastern quarter of France still have populations that are:

• rare;
• localized;
• or even absent.

This is particularly the case in certain areas such as:

• the Ardennes;
• Alsace.

This distribution demonstrates how quickly animal species react to climatic and environmental transformations.

A natural ally against insects

Pipistrelles play an essential ecological role.

Did you know?

A single Common Pipistrelle, weighing only between 3 and 8 grams, can catch up to 3,000 insects in a single night.

It mainly consumes:

• mosquitoes;
• nocturnal moths;
• small flying insects.

Bats thus constitute a true natural insecticide for gardens and agricultural areas.

Why protect pipistrelles?

Despite their ecological usefulness, bats remain fragile.

They face several threats:

• habitat loss;
• building renovations;
• excessive light pollution;
• pesticides;
• disturbance of colonies.

All bat species are protected in France.

Preserving their habitats and installing suitable roosts helps to sustainably support their populations.

How to encourage their presence in your garden?

Here are some simple steps to welcome pipistrelles:

• install a bat box;
• limit pesticides;
• preserve old trees;
• reduce nighttime lighting;
• promote hedges and biodiversity.

An insect-rich environment naturally encourages their presence.

Conclusion

Pipistrelles are an integral part of French biodiversity. The Common Pipistrelle is now present throughout the territory, while Kuhl's Pipistrelle continues a remarkable expansion northward.

Discreet but extremely useful, these small bats provide an immense ecological service every night by naturally regulating insect populations.

Understanding pipistrelles better also means better understanding the importance of preserving natural balances and the habitats that allow this nocturnal fauna to thrive.