'It is an offence to capture, injure or kill a bat, disturb a bat in a roost or to damage or obstruct a roost' remind Police

Police in West Lothian have released a reminder that bats are protected in Scotland, and harming them is a criminal offence.

Police Scotland, which have been running a campaign to help tackle wildlife crime are turning their focus onto bats.

All ten species of bats found in Scotland are protected.

'It is an offence to capture, injure or kill a bat, disturb a bat in a roost or to damage or obstruct a roost' remind Police

A statement from the police says: “It is an offence to capture, injure or kill a bat, disturb a bat in a roost or to damage or obstruct a roost.

“Destroying or damaging a roost is a strict liability, meaning it is not an excuse to say you were unaware of the roost.

"Bats perform important roles in environments around the world. In Scotland, they can help keep midge numbers under control!

“If you find a grounded or injured bat the Bat Conservation Trust has advice on what to do.”

The police ask that if anyone becomes aware of any of the above offences that they report it by calling 101.

The statement also said: “Bats live in roosts which can be found in manmade or natural structures.

"Development activities such as demolition, roof work or cutting down trees are the main threats to bats.

“It is an offence to destroy or damage a bat roost, even if no bats are present at the time.”

Again, this offence is strict liability, meaning it is not an excuse to say you were unaware of the roost.

NatureScot or the Bat Conservation Trust can advise you if you wish to undertake construction work or development near a bat roost.

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