(Plecotus auritus)

The Brown long-eared bat is widespread in Kent but is seen less often than the pipistrelles. It usually lives in or near woodland and hunts near trees and hedgerows, sometimes flying slowly or hovering to take insects from leaves or grass. Moths are the favoured prey. Late emergence and their immediate use of tree and scrub cover makes them difficult to see. These bats prefer to roost in old houses with high timbered lofts, emerging after dark. They are opportunists and can be found in any habitat where moths are available, even on the very sparsely wooded Isle of Sheppey.