Habitat:
Forests, wetlands, grasslands

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The common pipistrelle is a small bat widely distributed across Europe. It measures about 3.5 to 5 cm in length with a wingspan of 18 to 25 cm. Its fur is dark brown, and it is characterized by its short, rounded ears. Often seen flying at dusk, it hunts insects near water bodies or forests, using echolocation to navigate and capture prey. The common pipistrelle is an important indicator of ecosystem health, contributing to insect population control. It hibernates during winter in shelters like caves or abandoned buildings.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the common pipistrelle, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of 400 mm or more to capture sharp images without disturbing the animal. The best opportunities arise at dusk when these bats come out to hunt. Look for areas near water or clearings where they are active. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera in low-light conditions and be patient. Avoid using flash to prevent scaring the bats and prefer high ISO settings to compensate for the lack of light.