Horseshoe Bats (Chiroptera, Rhinolophidae) in the south-western Crimea and problems of their protection

Largely based on original data, the distribution and abundance of Rhinolophidae in southwestern Crimea are updated and summarized, with only two species involved -Rhinolophus hipposideros and R. ferrumequinum. Their colonies, both wintering and maternity, have been found. Several breeding colonies of R. ferrumequinum have been recorded for the first time at and near Sevastopol. A total of 24 and 32 shelters and roosts of R. hipposideros and R. ferrumequinum have been registered in the study region, respectively. The main factors affecting Horseshoe bat occurrences and conservation in south-western Crimea are outlined as well.