[Barbastella barbastellus] is widely distributed in England and Wales with centres of population in south-west and mid-west England, and Norfolk. It is believed to be rare in the UK, with only 340 records since 1802. Only one UK maternity roost and less than 30 hibernation sites are currently known. The most recent UK population estimate is approximately 5000 individuals but the overall population trend is not known. The barbastelle bat is widespread in continental Europe, but appears to be rare almost everywhere.