Myotis alcathoeConfirmed in the UK from Mitochondrial and Microsatellite DNA

Abstract

We describe the recent discovery of Alcathoe bat, Myotis alcathoe, at locations in the south and north of England. First described in 2001 from individuals caught in Greece, the species' known range has steadily been extended across much of Europe. Its presence in the UK. was confirmed by mtDNA (ND1) and microsatellite analysis of wing biopsy samples collected between 2003-2009, primarily at swarming sites. Morphological and echolocation call data are consistent with the genetic interpretation. The presence of M. alcathoe at sites 350 km apart, and the probability that it makes up a significant proportion of the small Myotis bats at these sites, suggest it is a resident species. Preliminary assessment of its distribution in the UK will be facilitated by its distinctive echolocation call, an FM sweep that typically terminates at 43-46 kHz, above those of other Myotis species.