Comparison between two techniques to study habitat use by serotine bats (Eptesicus serotinus): radiotracking and bat detectors used simultaneously

Abstract

peer reviewedDuring the course of a study on the use of habitat by the common serotine bat in Belgium, we have had recourse to radiotracking and the prospecting with an ultrasonic detector. The results obtained with the two techniques used have been compared. The preferred habitats of the bats were found identical with the two techniques, with a preferece for leafy environments. However, the interpretation of the results affords different information depending on the technique adopted. We have thus compared the limits of each of the two techniques. In conclusion, the results obtained by radiotracking and with the ultrasonic detector are at the same time virtually the same but also complementary