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Extensive field surveys were carried out to explore the distribution of Leisler’s Bat Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) in selected area of FATA regions, Pakistan. Specimens of Leisler’s Bat Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) (n5) were collected from Kurram Agency (Shublan) (N33.8229788 E70.1634414) at elevation 1427m and Khyber Agency (Landi Kotel) (N34.0909899 E71.1457517) at elevation 1091m for two years survey extending from May 2013 through August 2015. The mean head and body length, hind foot length, ear length and tail length the Nyctalus leisleri specimens captured from the study area was 65.08 ± 1.58 mm, 44.06 ± 0.52 mm, 8.38 ± 0.60 mm, 13.20 ± 0.99 mm and 39.46 ± 1.46 mm, respectively. For molecular analysis the sequences of COI gene were obtained and analyzed. The mean intraspecific divergences of Nyctalus leisleri was 0.04%. The mean interspecific divergences of Nyctalus noctula and Nyctalus leisleri was 0.2%. The mean concentration of each nucleotides was A = (26.3%), T = (32.8%), G = (15.9%) and C = (25.0%). The mean A+T contents were 59.2%and C+G were 40.9%. In the phylogenetic tree Nyctalus leisleri and Nyctalus noctula clustered with significant bootstrap support value. Resumo Extensas pesquisas de campo foram realizadas para explorar a distribuição do morcego de Leisler Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819), em uma área selecionada das regiões das FATA, Paquistão. Espécimes do morcego de Leisler Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) (n = 5) foram coletados na Agência Kurram (Shublan) (N33.8229788 E70.1634414), na elevação 1.427 m, e na Agência Khyber (Landi Kotel) (N34.0909899 E71.1457517), na elevação 1.091 m, por dois anos de pesquisa, estendendo-se de maio de 2013 a agosto de 2015. Os comprimentos médios da cabeça, do corpo, do pé traseiro, da orelha e da cauda dos espécimes de Nyctalus leisleri capturados na área de estudo foram de 65,08 ± 1,58 mm, 44,06 ± 0,52 mm, 8,38 ± 0,60 mm, 13,20 ± 0,99 mm e 39,46 ± 1,46 mm, respectivamente. Para análise molecular, foram obtidas e analisadas as sequências do gene COI. A média das divergências intraespecíficas de Nyctalus leisleri foi de 0,04%. As divergências interespecíficas médias de Nyctalus noctula e Nyctalus leisleri foram de 0,2%. A concentração média de cada nucleotídeos foi A = 26,3%, T = 32,8%, G = 15,9% e C = 25%. Os conteúdos médios de A + T foram de 59,2% e de C + G foram de 40,9%. Na árvore filogenética, Nyctalus leisleri e Nyctalus noctula agruparam-se com um valor significativo de suporte de bootstrap.

Many migratory species have shifted their geographic distribution in response to climate change, yet the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, particularly for mammals. We hypothesized that generational shifts are underlying the observed colonization of hibernation sites further north in a migratory bat, the common noctule ( Nyctalus noctula) . To evaluate our hypothesis, we collected long-term data on the migratory status and demography of common noctules in a recently colonized hibernation area. Based on isotopic data of 413 individuals, we observed a significant decline in the proportion of long-distance migrants from 2004 to 2015 for both sexes and across all age groups. Demographic data collected between 2007 and 2016 from 3394 individuals demonstrated that subadult males were more abundant during the early colonization stage, followed by a gradual shift to a more balanced age and sex composition. Our results suggest that the colonization of hibernacula at higher latitudes is promoted by generational shifts, involving mostly first-year males. Generational shifts seem to be a likely mechanism for distribution changes in other bats and potentially also in other mammals.

Background Spotted fever group rickettsiae represent one of the most diverse groups of vector-borne bacteria, with several human pathogenic species showing an emerging trend worldwide. Most species are vectored by ticks (Ixodidae), with many zoonotic reservoir species among most terrestrial vertebrate groups. While the reservoir competence of many different vertebrate species is well known (e.g. birds, rodents and dogs), studies on insectivorous bats have been rarely performed despite their high species diversity, ubiquitous urban presence and importance in harboring zoonotic disease agents. Romania has a high diversity and ubiquity of bats. Moreover, seven out of eight SFG rickettsiae species with zoonotic potential were previously reported in Romania. Based on this, the aim of this study was to detect Rickettsia species in tissue samples in bats. Methods Here we report a large-scale study (322 bats belonging to 20 species) on the presence of Rickettsia spp. in Romanian bat species. Tissue samples from insectivorous bats were tested for the presence of Rickettsia DNA using PCR detection amplifying a 381 bp fragment of the gltA gene. Positive results were sequenced to confirm the results. The obtained results were statistically analyzed by chi-squared independence test. Results Positive results were obtained in 14.6% of bat samples. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of R. monacensis in two bat species (Nyctalus noctula and Pipistrellus pipistrellus) in two locations. Conclusion This study provides the first evidence of a possible involvement of these bat species in the epidemiology of Rickettsia spp., highlighting the importance of bats in natural cycles of these vector-borne pathogens. Graphical Abstract

Host associated microbiome not only may affect the individual health-status or provide insights into the species- or group specific bacterial communities but may act as early warning signs in the assessment of zoonotic reservoirs, offering clues to predict, prevent and control possible episodes of emerging zoonoses. Bats may be carriers and reservoirs of multiple pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and parasites, showing in the same time robust immunity against many of them. The microbiota plays a fundamental role on the induction, training and function of the host immune system and the immune system has largely evolved in order to maintain the symbiotic relationship of the host with these diverse microbes. Thus, expanding our knowledge on bat-associated microbiome it can be usefully in understanding bats’ outstanding immune capacities. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of different bacterial communities in heart tissue of insectivorous bats, Nyctalus noctula, Pipistrellus pipistrellus and Rhinoplophus hipposideros, from Central and Eastern Europe using high-throughput sequencing of variable regions of the 16S rRNA. In addition, species-specific PCRs were used to validate the presence of the vector-borne pathogens Bartonella spp. and Rickettsia spp. In this study we identified a wide variety of bacterial groups, with the most abundant phyla being Proteobacteria and Firmicutes. The results showed that at individual level, the year or location had no effect on the diversity and composition of the microbiome, however host species determined both structure and abundance of the bacterial community. We report the presence of vector-borne bacteria Bartonella spp. in samples of N. noctula and indications of Rickettsia spp. in R. hipposideros. Our results provide a first insight into the bacterial community found in heart tissue of bats from Central and South Eastern Europe.

Habitat fragmentation affects bat assemblages living in forests by changing species composition, species richness and population densities. The aim of this paper was to determine the structure of bat assemblages in fragmented forests of central Poland (Experimental Forest Station SGGW in Rogów) based on data concerning bat fauna of this area.Our work is based on published as well as unpublished data collected between 2011–2017 and the two main methods employed during field work were: (1) evening and night bat netting, (2) detection of flying bats on transects or in points by using ultrasound detectors. 16 bat species were observed with the most common ones being serotine batEptesicus serotinus(Schreb.), common noctuleNyctalus noctula(Schreb.) and brown long-eared batPlecotus auritus(l.). less numerous in overall but frequently observed in some sites were the western barbastelleBarbastella barbastellus(Schreb.) and the Daubenton's batMyotis daubentonii(Kuhl). The following species occurred rarely: greater mouse-eared batMyotis myotis(Bork.), Natterer's batM. nattereri(Kuhl), whiskered batM. mystacinus(Kuhl), Brandt's batM. brandtii(evers.), northern batEptesicus nilssonii(Keys. & Blas.) parti-coloured batVespertilio murinusl., lesser noctuleNyctalus leisleri(Kuhl), common pipistrellePipistrellus pipistrellus(Schreb.), nathusius' pipistrelleP. nathusii(Keys. & Blas.), soprano pipistrelleP. pygmaeus(leach) and grey long-eared batPlecotus austriacus(Fish.).Fragmented forests of the study area did not differ significantly in terms of bat species composition from other fragmented forests of central Poland (Płońsk Plain) nor the large forest complexes of the Bolimowska and Kampinoska Forests. In this study area, however, bat assemblages were characterized by a lower relative abundance of the common noctule and a higher relative abundance of the serotine bat as compared to assemblages in other forests of central Poland.In conclusion, the forest fragmentation near Rogów does not significantly affect bat richness and fertilized habitats are suitable for relatively large populations of species such as the western barbastelle and lesser noctule.

Structural complexity is known to determine habitat quality for insectivorous bats, but how bats respond to habitat complexity in highly modified areas such as urban green spaces has been little explored. Furthermore, it is uncertain whether a recently developed measure of structural complexity is as effective as field‐based surveys when applied to urban environments. We assessed whether image‐derived structural complexity (MIG) was as/more effective than field‐based descriptors in this environment and evaluated the response of insectivorous bats to structural complexity in urban green spaces. Bat activity and species richness were assessed with ultrasonic devices at 180 locations within green spaces in Vienna, Austria. Vegetation complexity was assessed using 17 field‐based descriptors and by calculating the mean information gain (MIG) using digital images. Total bat activity and species richness decreased with increasing structural complexity of canopy cover, suggesting maneuverability and echolocation (sensorial) challenges for bat species using the canopy for flight and foraging. The negative response of functional groups to increased complexity was stronger for open‐space foragers than for edge‐space foragers. Nyctalus noctula, a species foraging in open space, showed a negative response to structural complexity, whereas Pipistrellus pygmaeus, an edge‐space forager, was positively influenced by the number of trees. Our results show that MIG is a useful, time‐ and cost‐effective tool to measure habitat complexity that complemented field‐based descriptors. Response of insectivorous bats to structural complexity was group‐ and species‐specific, which highlights the need for manifold management strategies (e.g., increasing or reinstating the extent of ground vegetation cover) to fulfill different species’ requirements and to conserve insectivorous bats in urban green spaces.

A previously unrecognised species of hymenolepidid cestode attributable to Vampirolepis Spassky, 1954 is described based on specimens from the common noctule bat Nyctalus noctula (Schreber) (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) from southeastern Kazakhstan (Dzungarian Alatau). Specimens of Vampirolepis kulkinae n. sp. differ from the morphologically similar congeners based on the number, size and shape of the rostellar hooks. The new species is further distinguished from additional cestodes attributed to Vampirolepis (sensu lato) by the arrangement of the testes in one row, egg structure (i.e. thin outer coat and emryophore without polar filaments) and the relative position and length of the cirrus-sac. This is the first species of the genus Vampirolepis described from Kazakhstan.

Background: Bats are known to host a number of nonpathogenic viruses, as well as highly pathogenic viruses causing fatal diseases like rabies. Serological surveys as part of active and passive bat rabies surveillance mainly use seroneutralization assays, demonstrating the presence of lyssavirus-specific antibodies in a variety of European bats, particularly against European bat lyssaviruses type 1 (EBLV-1). Here, we present the first serological survey in European bats of this kind during which European bats from Poland collected in the frame of passive rabies surveillance between 2012 and 2018, as well as Serotine bats (Eptesicus serotinus) and North American Big Brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus) from previous experimental studies, were tested using a commercial ELISA kit for the detection of anti-lyssavirus antibodies. Results: Lyssavirus-specific antibodies were detected in 35 (30.4%) out of 115 Polish bats of both sexes, representing nine out of 13 identified bat species endemic mainly to Central Southern Europe and Western Asia, i.e., Eptesicus serotinus, Nyctalus noctula, Myotis daubentonii, Plecotus auritus, Vespertillo murinus, Pipistrellus pipistrellus, Pipistrellus pipilstrellus/Pipistrellus pygmaeus, Myotis brandtii, and Barbastella barbastellus. Seroprevalence was highest in bat species of Nyctalus noctula, Eptesicus serotinus, Plecotus auritus, and Myotis daubentonii. More than 60% of the ELISA seropositive bats originated from the voivodeships of Silesia, Lower-Silesian, Warmian-Mazurian, and Mazowian. Rabies-specific antibodies were also found in Eptesicus fuscus bats from North America. Conclusions: The study demonstrates the principal application of the BioPro Rabies ELISA Ab Kit for the detection of anti-lyssavirus specific antibodies in body fluids and serum samples of bats. However, results may only be reliable for North American bats, whereas interpretation of results for European bats per se is difficult because proper validation of the test is hampered by the protected status of these species.

15. Common Noctule Nyctalus noctula French: Noctule commune / German: Grof3er Abendsegler / Spanish: Néctulo mediano Other common names: Noctule, Noctule Bat Taxonomy. Vespertilio noctula Schreber, 1774, France. Nyctalus noctula is sister to the clade including N. lasiopterus and N. aviator. N. plancyi has sometimes been included within this species, but is here recognized as a full species. The name labiatus has been moved to N. plancy: because of the clear morphological differences between N. noctula and labiatus, although labiatus has not been properly compared with N. plancyi; further research is required. Three subspecies recognized. Subspecies and Distribution. N. n. noctula Schreber, 1774 — throughout Europe from Great Britain, France, and Spain E to W Russia, W Kazakhstan, and SW Turkmenistan, including S Scandinavia, Gotland and Oland Is, and Cyprus (Cyprus records somewhat tentatively regarded as this subspecies). Absent throughout much of Iberia and is locally extinct in Portugal. N. n. lebanoticus D. L.. Harrison, 1962 — WC & SW Syria, Lebanon, and NE Israel. N. n. mecklenburzevi Kuzyakin, 1934 — SC & E Kazakhstan, SC Russia, W Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and NW China (Xinjiang). The species may be present in N Africa, with two records claimed from Algeria in 1858, but these may represent N. lasiopterus; further sampling is needed. Descriptive notes. Head-body 60-89 mm, tail 40-66 mm, ear 16-21 mm, hindfoot 12-14 mm, forearm 47-60 mm; weight 17-44 g. Dorsal pelage of the Common Noctule is a distinctive reddish brown (individual hairs unicolored), while ventral pelage is slightly paler. Juveniles and freshly molted adults are duller brown throughout. Ventral pelage extends onto wings and interfemoral membrane, as in other noctules. Face, ears, and membranes are dark brown, and tail extends a few millimeters past the uropatagium. Muzzle is short, with large glands between nostrils and eyes, and ears are short and triangular, with 4-5 folds on outer edge. Tragus is very short and rounded, mushroom-shaped, as is characteristic of the genus. Wings attach at ankle, and calcar reaches halfway to tail. Postcalcarial lobe is wide, with a visible T-shaped piece of cartilage. Common Noctules give off a distinctive musky odor. Skull is relatively high and wide; lambdoidal crest is undeveloped, and zygomatic arch is thin; I is larger than I*; crown of P* is one-half the size of or nearly equal to I’; lower molars are nyctalodont. Chromosomal complement has 2n = 42 and FN = 54. Habitat. Primarily found in temperate deciduous forests, wetlands, and agricultural fields and pastures; found at elevations from sea level up to ¢. 1900 m, preferring lowland regions but in Switzerland can be found at ¢. 1900 m. Common Noctules are well adapted to surviving in urban settings throughout their distribution, flying and foraging throughout cities and suburban areas. Food and Feeding. Insectivorous. Common Noctules are fast-flying aerial hawkers that forage primarily at higher altitudes above the canopy of forests or over open areas. Their diet consists mainly of large flying insects such as larger moths, beetles (e.g. cockchaters Melolontha spp.), and crickets, and smaller swarming insects, such as chironomids, anisopodids, and tipulids (Diptera), as well as some Trichoptera. When feeding on swarming species, the noctules can catch many more of them at once, which can be seen as a form of aerial filterfeeding. In Switzerland, harder coleopteran prey (Melolontha spp. in spring and Geotrupes spp. in autumn) were preferred over swarming insects during spring and autumn, while swarming insects were preferred during summer. This suggests a rather opportunistic hunting strategy for the species. Although they hibernate throughout winter, they will also forage as much as possible and have been recorded flying throughout winter and at temperatures below 0°C. During winter in central Europe, two groups of arachnids (Araneida, Acari) and nine orders of insects (Homoptera, Heteroptera, Psocoptera, Neuroptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, Siphonaptera) were identified in fecal samples from roosting bats. Lepidoptera (moths in particular making up the most important component throughout), Diptera, Coleoptera, and Araneida were the most prolific portions of their diet throughout winter but this changed markedly through the season. The presence of arachnids indicates that the species may also be foraging by gleaning, although this has not been reported. Breeding. Like other noctule species, the Common Noctule exhibits delayed fertilization, mating in late summer and early autumn before entering hibernation. During late summer, single males establish mating roosts, emitting shrill mating calls at the roost entrance or during flight, as well as having a strong odor, in order to attract a small harem of up to 20 females (4-5 is more common). Females stay with the male for c.1-2 days, in which time they copulate. Young are generally born in late June or July after just over two months of gestation. Litter size is 1-2 young, although two is commonest. Maternal colonies generally occur in the northern portion of their range, as this is where females migrate to in spring. Weaning occurs after c.3—4 weeks and young are able to forage for themselves by six weeks old, by which time they have become completely volant. Young are left in groups within roosts while females forage. Females will often switch roosts throughout the breeding season. Males generally begin mating after their first year. Activity patterns. Nocturnal, only foraging for a total of around one hour, spread over two equal bouts after sunset and before sunrise. They are fast fliers and often perform deep dives during flight. Roosting generally occurs in hollow portions of old trees, commonly in woodpecker holes, as well as in crevices in buildings and rock structures. During winter, they create larger roosts in tree holes, rock crevices, crevices in buildings, and underground in some cases. They are most active from March or April until around October, hibernating throughout winter (October-March/April). Common Noctules do still forage throughout winter (as do other noctule species), although little research has been performed into the winter habits of this species or its congeners. They remain in a torpid (hibernation) state throughout the day and even much of the night, but this is interrupted for foraging bouts during the night. They are regularly active at temperatures between 0°C and —-7°C but if temperatures drop below —-10°C, they will not fly. Calls are very loud (maximum energy at c¢.25 kHz on average) and are usually audible to the human ear, unlike most bat calls. Common Noctules exhibit two call types, both of which have an FM/QCF call shape; call type one have start frequencies of 23-8-52-2 kHz, end frequencies of 21-4-26-2 kHz, maximum energy at 22-4-27 kHz, middle frequencies of 21-4-28-7 kHz, call durations of 8-8-23.4 milliseconds, and interpulse intervals of 120-3—413-1 milliseconds; call type two has a start frequencies of 18:2-30-4 kHz, end frequencies of 17-3-23 kHz, maximum energy of 17-5-23-6 kHz, middle frequency of 17-4-24-6 kHz, call durations of 13-2-29-9 milliseconds, and interpulse intervals of 120-2-807-5 milliseconds. The bats regularly switch between the two call types while foraging. Predators include diurnal avian raptors (Accipiter, Circus, Falco), herring gulls (Larus argentatus), corvids, and great grey shrikes (Lanius excubitor). Movements, Home range and Social organization. Common Noctules are highly migratory throughout their range, traveling between breeding and hibernating areas. They breed throughout their range but hibernate only in the southern portion, usually traveling north from their winter quarters. Females generally migrate further and more often than males. Males are often sedentary and in northern parts of their range they will remain year-round whereas females will migrate south during the winter. Most individuals will not travel more than 1000 km, although the longest known migration within Europe for this species was 1546 km. They may not migrate as far or at all in southern and western portions of their range, where they are primarily sedentary. In early spring after leaving hibernation, they will create mixed-sex colonies that eventually disperse during late spring and develop into summer colonies. During summer, females create large maternity colonies, with an average of 20-50 individuals, occasionally ¢.100 individuals, while males and juveniles will roost alone or in smaller groups. Roosts can be much larger and have a mix of males and females during winter, including as many as ¢.1000 individuals in a single roost. Status and Conservation. Classified as Least Concern on The IUCN Red List. The Common Noctule is widespread and common throughout much of its distribution. There are no major threats to the species, although it may be threatened by the destruction of roosting sites in older trees. It has become locally extinct in much of the Iberian Peninsula, including all of Portugal. Bibliography. Avery (1986), Benda et al. (2007), Bihari (2004), Celuch & Kafuch (2005), Csorba & Hutson (2016), Fedyk & Fedyk (1970), Gloor et al. (1995), Gorfol et al. (2009), Jones (1995), Kanuch, Janetkové & Kristin (2005), Kleiman (1969), Mackie & Racey (2007), Mikula et al. (2016), Petit & Mayer (1999), Racey (1974a), Rachwald (1992), Ruczynski et al. (2007), Samiya et al. (1993), Schober & Grimmberger (1998), Spitzenberger (2002), Strelkov (1969, 1997), Vogler & Neuweiler (1983)., Published as part of Don E. Wilson & Russell A. Mittermeier, 2019, Vespertilionidae, pp. 716-981 in Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 9 Bats, Barcelona :Lynx Edicions on pages 766-767, DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.6397752

In animals, fatty acids (FA) are essential as structural components in membranes and for energy storage in adipocytes. Here, we studied the relative proportions of FA in a mammal with extreme changes in metabolic rates. Common noctule bats (Nyctalus noctula) switch from energetically demanding long-distance migration at high metabolic rates to regular torpor with extremely low metabolic rates. We found that composition of FA categories differed between adipose tissue types (white adipose tissue (WAT) vs brown adipose tissue (BAT)) and muscle tissue types (skeletal vs heart), but not between sexes. We found oleic acid to be the most abundant FA in all studied tissues. Concentrations of polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) were not always higher in muscular tissue compared with adipocyte tissue, even though high concentrations of PUFA are considered beneficial for low body temperatures in torpor. In all tissues, we observed a high content in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), possibly to compensate for a low PUFA content in the diet. Ratios of ω6/ω3 were lower in the heart than in skeletal muscles of common noctules. Three FA (palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acid) accounted for about 70% of the FA in adipose tissue, which is similar to proportions observed in migrating birds, yet migrating birds generally have a higher PUFA content in muscle and adipose tissues than bats. Bats seem to contrast with other mammals in having a high MUFA content in all tissues. We conclude that FA profiles of bats differ largely from those of most cursorial mammals and instead are-with the exception of MUFA-similar to those of migrating birds.

The killing of large numbers of migratory bats at wind turbines is a pressing conservation problem. Even though avoidance and mitigation measures could benefit from a better knowledge of the species' migratory habits, we lack basic information about what habitats and corridors bats use during migration. We studied the isotopic niche dimensions of three bat species that are frequently killed at wind turbines in Germany: non-migratory Pipistrellus pipistrellus, mid-distance migratory Nyctalus noctula, and long- distance migratory Pipistrellus nathusii. We measured stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios (δ¹³C, δ¹⁵N) in five tissues that differed in isotopic retention time (fur, wing membrane tissue, muscle, liver, blood) to shed light on the species-specific habitat use during the autumn migration period using standard ellipse areas (SEAc). Further, we used stable isotope ratios of non-exchangeable hydrogen (δ²H(K)) in fur keratin to assess the breeding origin of bats. We inferred from isotopic composition (δ¹³C, δ¹⁵N) of fur keratin that isotopic niche dimensions of P. nathusii was distinct from that of N. noctula and P. pipistrellus, probably because P. nathusii was using more aquatic habitats than the other two species. Isoscape origin models supported that traveled distances before dying at wind turbines was largest for P. nathusii, intermediate for N. noctula, and shortest for P. pipistrellus. Isotopic niche dimensions calculated for each sample type separately reflected the species' migratory behavior. Pipistrellus pipistrellus and N. noctula showed similar isotopic niche breadth across all tissue types, whereas SEAc values of P. nathusii increased in tissues with slow turnaround time. Isotopic data suggested that P. nathusii consistently used aquatic habitats throughout the autumn period, whereas N. noctula showed a stronger association with terrestrial habitats during autumn compared to the pre-migration period.

Animal migration has fascinated humans at least since Aristotle's time, but we only started to understand its details thanks to the famous "arrow storks" in the 19th century that returned to Europe with an arrow in their body, providing the first clues of African wintering sites. Bird migration has received a large amount of attention since then, but knowledge about migration of other organisms, even small passerine birds, remains rudimentary (Bowlin et al. 2010). published

RATIONALE Isoscape origin models for mammals may be impaired by fractionation and routing of isotopes during lactation. Here, we tested if the stable carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen ratios of juvenile bats differ from those of their mothers and if derived isotopic dietary niches and geographical assignments vary accordingly between mothers and juveniles. METHODS During the post-lactation period, we collected fur of juvenile and female common noctule bats (Nyctalus noctula) from the same maternity roost. Using a combination of elemental analysis and stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry, we measured the hydrogen, carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios in fur keratin. The hydrogen isotope ratios were measured for the non-exchangeable portion of hydrogen in keratin. The derived isotopic niches and isoscape origin models were compared between mothers and juveniles. RESULTS The fur keratin of juveniles was enriched by 1.6‰ in 15 N and depleted by 2.9‰ in 13 C compared with that of the mothers. In addition, the hydrogen isotope ratios were 13.4‰ lower in the fur keratin of juveniles than in that of mothers. The estimated isotopic niches of nursing females and juveniles were not overlapping and differed in size. Overall, the isoscape origin models projected juveniles as being from a more northern origin than the mothers; yet both models suggested the study site as a likely place of origin. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that isotope ratio data of juvenile bats should not be used for transfer functions in isoscape origin models because of isotopic routing and discrimination during lactation. Not accounting for age effects may increase the inaccuracy of geographical assignments in mammals when based on stable hydrogen isotopes.

Metal-contaminated soils and sediments are widespread in urbanized areas due to atmospheric deposition close to emission sources. These metals are bio-available for organisms, e.g., insects, and accumulate in food chains of insectivorous mammals. Especially bats, which live in urban regions and ingest large amounts of food relative to their body mass, are at risk of being poisoned due to the accumulation of trace metals. To determine species-specific trace metal contents in bats from urban environments, hair samples were analyzed by ICP-OES. Observed trace metal concentrations were related to species-specific foraging habitat, prey spectrum and degree of synanthropy. The species studied were Pipistrellus pipistrellus, Myotis daubentonii and Nyctalus noctula. P. pipistrellus showed the highest concentrations of lead and zinc and slightly higher concentrations of cadmium than the other two species, which was related to its high degree of synanthropy with foraging habitat mostly located in cities. In contrast, N. noctula displayed the highest contents of manganese and copper. The reason might be found in its prey spectrum, as N. noctula feeds mainly on beetles that are caught in cultured areas. Trace metal concentrations determined in hair samples of M. daubentonii ranged between the values of P. pipistrellus and N. noctula, probably reflecting an intermediate level of synanthropy. Positive correlations were observed between the concentrations of cadmium and lead and those of manganese and copper. Hair samples from bats are suitable monitoring tools to study trace metal exposure and can be used to determine differences in trace metal levels between species.

The baculum (os penis) has been extensively studied as a taxon-specific character in bats and other mammals but its mechanical function is still unclear. There is a wide consensus in the literature that the baculum is probably a sexually selected character. Using a novel approach combining postmortem manipulation and three-dimensional (3D) imaging, we tested two functional hypotheses in the common noctule bat Nyctalus noctula, the common pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus, and Nathusius' pipistrelle Pipistrellus nathusii: (i) whether the baculum can protect the distal urethra and urethral opening from compression during erection and copulation; and (ii) whether the baculum and corpora cavernosa form a functional unit to support both the penile shaft and the more distal glans tip. In freshly dead or frozen and thawed bats, we compared flaccid penises with artificially 'erect' penises that were inflated with 10% formalin. Penises were stained with alcoholic iodine and imaged with a lab-based high-resolution x-ray microtomography system. Analysis of the 3D images enabled us to compare the changes in relative positions of the baculum, corpora cavernosa, urethra, and corpus spongiosum with one another between flaccid and 'erect' penises. Our results support both functional hypotheses, indicating that the baculum probably performs two different roles during erection. Our approach should prove valuable for comparing and testing the functions of different baculum morphologies in bats and other mammals. Moreover, we have validated an essential component of the groundwork necessary to extend this approach with finite element analysis for quantitative 3D biomechanical modeling of penis function.

Nyctalus noctula [Schreber, 1774] (?) Vespertilios noctula Schreber, 1774: 166, pl. 52; FRANCE (Collector unknown; Type unknown) [202]. Nyctalus noctula [8]. Common English name: Eurasian Noctule Barcode Index Number: DNA barcodes recorded as N. noctula are associated with BIN, BOLD: AAC 7411, but there are no DNA barcodes from Peninsular Malaysia. Remarks: Chasen [8] suggested that the species in Peninsular Malaysia may represents N. n. labiate = labiatus Hodgson, 1835 (type locality = Nepal) which also occurs in Pakistan and India [9]. N. n. labiatus is considered to be morphologically distinct from N. noctula and therefore, should be raised as a species [203]. The records of N. noctula from Peninsular Malaysia, if valid, may be referable to “labiatus” or “plancyi” [203]. IUCN status: Least Concern Recorded at: There is only one record of N. noctula in this region which is an old skin dated 1838 purchased in Singapore [204] but its origin remains doubtful [23]. Based on the purchased skin, Dobson [204] included Peninsular Malaysia in the distribution range of N. noctula, which was followed by Corbet and Hill [9] and Medway [23]. We could not find recent records for the species although it is thought to occur in Peninsular Malaysia [1, 10]. We found two old records which reported two specimens of Nyctalus sp. in a National Park, Pahang [87] and Ulu Langat Forest Reserve, Selangor [88]. However, there are no specimens deposited in the DWNP collection. N. noctula roosts in tree hollows and forages high above canopy [14, 23]., Published as part of Voon-Ching Lim, Rosli Ramli, Subha Bhassu & John-James Wilson, 2017, A checklist of the bats of Peninsular Malaysia and progress towards a DNA barcode reference library, pp. 1-65 in PLoS ONE 12 (7) on page 47, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179555, http://zenodo.org/record/4251352, {"references":["202. Schreber JC. Die Saugethiere. Abbildungen nach der Natur mit Beschreibungen, vol 1. Erlangen: Wolfgang Walther. 1775.","8. Chasen FN. A handlist of Malaysian mammals (A systematic list of the mammals of the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo and Java, including the adjacent small islands). Bulletin of the Raffles Museum; 1940.","9. Corbet GB, Hill JE. The mammals of the Indomalayan region: a systematic review. Oxford: Oxford University Press; 1992.","203. Csorba G, Hutson AM. Nyctalus noctula; 2016 [cited 2017 Jan 16]. Database: The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e. T 14920 A 22015682 [Internet]. Available from: http: // dx. doi. org / 10.2305 / IUCN. UK. 2016 - 2. RLTS. T 14920 A 22015682. en.","204. Dobson GE. Catalogue of Chiroptera in the collection of the British Museum. London: Bristish Museum; 1878.","23. Medway L. The wild mammals of Malaya. London: Oxford University Press. 1969.","1. Davison GW, Zubaid A. The status of mammalian biodiversity in Malaysia. Status of Biological Diversity in Malaysia and Threat Assessment of Plant Species in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur: Forest Research Institute Malaysia; 2007. pp. 3 - 27.","10. DWNP. Red list of mammals for Peninsular Malaysia. Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia; 2010.","87. Yatim SH, Baatu Z, Saaidun KA, Marzuki MI. Survey of mammals and bird species in six different habitats: mangrove, lowland dipterocarp, hill dipterocarp, upper dipterocarp, montane oak and montane ericaceous forest. Journal of Wildlife and Parks. 1985; 4: 65 - 91.","88. Yatim SH. A preliminary survey on inventory habitat and wildlife in the Ulu Langat Forest Reserve and Sungai Dusun Game Reserve. Journal of Wildlife and Parks. 1983; 2: 119 - 140.","14. Francis CM. A field guide to the mammals of South-East Asia. New Holland Publishers; 2008."]}

Bats are natural reservoirs for many mammalian coronaviruses, which have received renewed interest after the discovery of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) CoV in humans. This study describes the identification and molecular characterization of alphacoronaviruses and betacoronaviruses in bats in Italy, from 2010 to 2012. Sixty-nine faecal samples and 126 carcasses were tested using pan-coronavirus RT-PCR. Coronavirus RNAs were detected in seven faecal samples and nine carcasses. A phylogenetic analysis of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase sequence fragments aided in identifying two alphacoronaviruses from Kuhl’s pipistrelle (Pipistrellus kuhlii), three clade 2b betacoronaviruses from lesser horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus hipposideros), and 10 clade 2c betacoronaviruses from Kuhl’s pipistrelle, common noctule (Nyctalus noctula), and Savi’s pipistrelle (Hypsugo savii). This study fills a substantive gap in the knowledge on bat-CoV ecology in Italy, and extends the current knowledge on clade 2c betacoronaviruses with new sequences obtained from bats that have not been previously described as hosts of these viruses.

Hantaviruses are emerging RNA viruses that cause human diseases predominantly in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Besides rodents, insectivores and bats serve as hantavirus reservoirs. We report the detection and genome characterization of a novel bat-borne hantavirus isolated from insectivorous common noctule bat. The newfound virus was tentatively named as Brno virus., Highlights • Novel tentative Hantavirus species (Brno virus; BRNV) was identified in European bat species Nyctalus noctula • BRNV represents the first identified bat-borne hantavirus in Europe • Nearly complete sequence of all genomic segments of BRNV was determined • BRNV phylogenetically groups with other novel hantaviruses from bats

Samples from native Hungarian or captive bats were tested by PCR for the presence of adenoviruses and herpesviruses. Two novel adenoviruses from a common noctule (Nyctalus noctula) and a greater horseshoe (Rhinolophus ferrum-equinum) bat were detected. In captive Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus), DNA from two novel herpesviruses was demonstrated. Phylogenetic analysis facilitated provisional taxonomic placement of the newly detected viruses. Such analysis and the existence of unique, shared early proteins (E3 and E4) suggest that canine adenoviruses may have originated in vespertilinoid bats.

We studied the noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula), in which the mitochondrial F(ST) is about 10 times that revealed by nuclear markers, to address two questions. We first verified whether random dispersal of one sex is compatible with highly contrasted mitochondrial and nuclear population structures. Using computer simulations, we then assessed the power of multilocus population differentiation tests when the expected population structure departs only slightly from panmixia. Using an island model with sex-specific demographic parameters, we found that random male dispersal is consistent with the population structure observed in the noctule. However, other parameter combinations are also compatible with the data. We computed the minimum sex bias in dispersal (at least 69% of the dispersing individuals are males), a result that would not be available if we had used more classical population genetic models. The power of multilocus population differentiation tests was unexpectedly high, the tests being significant in almost 100% of the replicates, although the observed population structure infered from nuclear markers was extremely low (F(ST) = 0.6%).

The mitochondrial genome of Nyctalus noctula is a circular molecule of 17,478 bp in length, containing 22 transfer RNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNAs and a D-loop region. The overall A + T content of the H-strand is 61.4% (A 32.0%, T 29.4%, C 24.1% and G 14.5%). Among the 13 protein-coding genes, most of them begin with ATG as the start codon except for ND5 with ATA and ND2 and ND3 with ATT. ND1 and ND2 genes terminate with TAG as the stop codon, Cyt b ends with AGA, COIII, ND3 and ND4 genes end with an incomplete stop codon (T– –) and the other protein-coding genes end with TAA. In Bayesian inference (BI) and Maximum likelihood (ML) trees, we found that N. noctula is a sister clade to Pipistrellus abramus, and (Nyctalus + Pipistrellus) is a sister clade to (Chalinolobus + (Eptesicus + Vespertilio)) (1.00 in BI and 100% in ML).

Migratory decisions in birds are closely tied to environmental cues and fat stores, but it remains unknown if the same variables trigger bat migration. To learn more about the rare phenomenon of bat migration, we studied departure decisions of female common noctules ( Nyctalus noctula ) in southern Germany. We did not find the fattening period that modulates departure decisions in birds. Female noctules departed after a regular evening foraging session, uniformly heading northeast. As the day of year increased, migratory decisions were based on the interactions among wind speed, wind direction and air pressure. As the migration season progressed, bats were likely to migrate on nights with higher air pressure and faster tail winds in the direction of travel, and also show high probability of migration on low-pressure nights with slow head winds. Common noctules thus monitor complex environmental conditions to find the optimal migration night.

Over recent years, it became widely accepted that alternative, renewable energy may come at some risk for wildlife, for example, when wind turbines cause large numbers of bat fatalities. To better assess likely populations effects of wind turbine related wildlife fatalities, we studied the geographical origin of the most common bat species found dead below German wind turbines, the noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula). We measured stable isotope ratios of non-exchangeable hydrogen in fur keratin to separate migrants from local individuals, used a linear mixed-effects model to identify temporal, spatial and biological factors explaining the variance in measured stable isotope ratios and determined the geographical breeding provenance of killed migrants using isoscape origin models. We found that 72% of noctule bat casualties (n = 136) were of local origin, while 28% were long-distance migrants. These findings highlight that bat fatalities at German wind turbines may affect both local and distant populations. Our results indicated a sex and age-specific vulnerability of bats towards lethal accidents at turbines, i.e. a relatively high proportion of killed females were recorded among migratory individuals, whereas more juveniles than adults were recorded among killed bats of local origin. Migratory noctule bats were found to originate from distant populations in the Northeastern parts of Europe. The large catchment areas of German wind turbines and high vulnerability of female and juvenile noctule bats call for immediate action to reduce the negative cross-boundary effects of bat fatalities at wind turbines on local and distant populations. Further, our study highlights the importance of implementing effective mitigation measures and developing species and scale-specific conservation approaches on both national and international levels to protect source populations of bats. The efficacy of local compensatory measures appears doubtful, at least for migrant noctule bats, considering the large geographical catchment areas of German wind turbines for this species.

Most countries in Western Europe are currently free of rabies in terrestrial mammals. Nevertheless, rabies remains a residual risk to public health due to the natural circulation of bat-specific viruses, such as European bat lyssaviruses (EBLVs). European bat lyssavirus types 1 and 2 (EBLV-1 and EBLV-2) are widely distributed throughout Europe, but little is known of their true prevalence and epidemiology. We report that only three out of 837 brains taken from bats submitted to the Swiss Rabies Centre between 1976 and 2009 were found by immunofluorescence (FAT) to be positive for EBLVs. All three positive cases were in Myotis daubentoni, from 1992, 1993 and 2002. In addition to this passive surveillance, we undertook a targeted survey in 2009, aimed at detecting lyssaviruses in live bats in Switzerland. A total of 237 bats of the species M. daubentoni, Myotis myotis, Eptesicus serotinus and Nyctalus noctula were captured at different sites in western Switzerland. Oropharyngeal swabs and blood from each individual were analysed by RT-PCR and rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test (RFFIT), respectively. RNA corresponding to EBLV-2 was detected from oropharyngeal swabs of a single M. daubentoni bat, but no infectious virus was found. Molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that the corresponding sequence was closely related to the other EBLV-2 sequences identified in previous rabies isolates from Swiss bats (particularly to that found at Geneva in 2002). Three M. daubentoni bats were found to be seropositive by RFFIT. In conclusion, even though the prevalence is low in Switzerland, continuous management and surveillance are required to assess the potential risk to public health.

Fecal samples of 211 bats representing 13 different bat species from 31 locations in the Netherlands were analyzed for the presence of coronaviruses (CoV) using a genus-wide reverse transcription (RT)-polymerase chain reaction. CoVs are known for their high potential for interspecies transmission, including zoonotic transmission with bats as reservoir hosts. For the first time, a group 2 CoV was found in a bat, Pipistrellus pipistrellus, in Europe. This is of particular interest for public health as the reservoir host is a species that is common to urban areas in most of Europe and notorious for its close interactions with humans. Four verspertilionid bat species were found to excrete group 1 CoVs, viz. Myotis daubentonii, M. dasycneme, P. pipistrellus, and Nyctalus noctula. The last species is a newly identified reservoir. The overall prevalence was 16.9% and positive bats were found at multiple widespread locations. The circulating group 1 CoV lineages were rather species associated than location associated.

SUMMARYTree cavities are a critical resource for most forest-dwelling bats. Yet,it is not known how bats search for new sites and, in particular, find entrances to cavities. Here, we evaluated the importance of different sensory channels for the detection of tree roosts by the noctule bat Nyctalus noctula. Specifically, we tested the role of three non-social cues (echo information, visual information and temperature-related cues) and two social sensory cues (conspecific echolocation calls and the presence of bat olfactory cues). We set up an experiment in a flight room that mimicked natural conditions. In the flight room, we trained wild-caught bats kept in captivity for a short while to find the entrance to an artificial tree cavity. We measured the bats' hole-finding performance based on echolocation cues alone and then presented the bat with one of four additional sensory cues. Our data show that conspecific echolocation calls clearly improved the bats'performance in finding tree holes, both from flying (long-range detection) and when they were crawling on the trunk (short range detection). The other cues we presented had no, or only weak, effects on performance, implying that detection of new cavities from a distance is difficult for noctules if no additional social cues, in particular calls from conspecifics, are present. We conclude that sensory constraints strongly limit the effectiveness of finding new cavities and may in turn promote sociality and acoustic information transfer among bats. As acoustic cues clearly increased the bats' detection performance, we suggest that eavesdropping is an important mechanism for reducing the costs of finding suitable roosts.