Bat species identification using eDNA (genotyping)
A fast, reliable, and non-invasive way to identify bat species
If it is not possible to use traditional bat survey methods, DNA analysis or bat genotyping can reliably identify bat species from their guano (droppings). This is often used when identification through morphology is not possible or where bats cannot be seen. It also avoids the need to capture or trap bats.
It also avoids the need to capture or trap bats.
Analysis of individual samples is £60 (standard service with results within 10 working days) or £80 (fast track service with results within 5 working days). All prices exclude VAT.
The law around bats
All 18 species of bat in the UK are protected by domestic and European legislation. Bats can roost in trees, buildings, caves, tunnels, bridges and other structures, if there is suitable habitat nearby for them to forage.
It is illegal to
- disturb a bat or groups of bats in their roost
- damage or destroy a bat roosting place, even if there are no bats present at the time
- obstruct access to a bat roost
- capture, injure or kill a bat or possess, advertise, sell or exchange a bat or part of a bat dead or alive.
How to send your sample
Our kits contain enough consumables to take four samples. When collecting, please take 2-3 droppings per site for each sample. Return to us when convenient.
Post your sample to us in a tube or secure small, hard container
Samples sent in bags or envelopes often get crushed, making analysis more difficult and sometimes inconclusive. Guidance on what to tell us about your sample can be found in the ADAS Bat Dropping Sampling Protocol.
When sending your sample
Make sure that when you send your sample, you specify fast track (5 days) or standard analysis (10 days) and include your name, company and email address to receive the results.
You can order our genotyping service online
An ADAS sampling kit is £20. Each kit contains enough consumables to take four samples either from four different species or four different sites. Samples can be returned to us as soon as it is convenient.
Analysis of individual samples is £60 (standard service with results within 10 working days) or £80 (fast track service with results within 5 working days). All prices exclude VAT.
How we carry out bat genotyping
When we receive your sample, the DNA is extracted, cleaned and stored at -20 degrees Celsius.
We will then carry out PCR amplification and sequencing of a mitochondrial gene segment – cytochrome c oxidase I (COI).
This information is compared to a database containing DNA information of all known European bat species, which enables us to determine the correct bat species.
Traditional bat surveying
Wherever a project or development is likely to impact bats or their roosts, you will need to establish which species are present and the number of bats the work may affect, along with the potential impact. ADAS has a team of licensed ecologists who offer traditional bat surveys and mitigation advice
Find out more about bat surveys