VU

Giant Noctule

Nyctalus lasiopterus

DecliningDDEUDDEU

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Giant Noctule faces significant pressure from habitat loss as old-growth forests containing suitable roosting trees are cleared for agriculture and development across its European range. Wind energy installations pose an additional threat, as this high-flying species is particularly vulnerable to turbine strikes during migration and foraging flights. Climate change may be altering the distribution and abundance of its preferred prey species, large moths and beetles, while also affecting the timing of seasonal migrations.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Giant Noctule inhabits mature deciduous and mixed forests across Europe, particularly favoring old-growth woodlands with large hollow trees for roosting. During migration, it utilizes a variety of forested landscapes and woodland edges, often foraging over open areas adjacent to forests.

Forest· majorForest - Subtropical/tropical dry· majorWetlands (inland) - Permanent rivers/streams· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Giant Noctule classified as Vulnerable?
Giant Noctule is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Giant Noctule faces significant pressure from habitat loss as old-growth forests containing suitable roosting trees are cleared for agriculture and development across its European range. Wind energy installations pose an additional threat, as this high-flying species is particularly vulnerable to turbine strikes during migration and foraging flights. Climate change may be altering the distribution and abundance of its preferred prey species, large moths and beetles, while also affecting the timing of seasonal migrations.
Where does Giant Noctule live?
Giant Noctule occurs in Algeria, Cyprus, Iran, Italy, Kazakhstan, and Libya (plus 4 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Giant Noctule?
The main threats to Giant Noctule are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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