Along with more traditional handheld bat detectors, static bat recorders are now an essential tool for professional ecologists, researchers, and conservationists, allowing for continuous monitoring of bat activity in the field with minimal human effort.
Also known as passive bat recorders, they allow you to monitor an area over several nights, weeks or even months. They record onto an SD card so you can analyse the calls back in your home or office at your leisure. Whether you're looking for high-quality full-spectrum recordings, long deployment times, or user-friendly software, there’s a recorder to suit your needs. Here’s our roundup of the top five static bat detectors in 2025, all available at Wildcare!
1. Titley Ranger Bioacoustic Recorder
A brand-new addition from Titley Scientific for 2024, the Ranger is an ultra-flexible bioacoustic recorder designed for both ultrasonic and audible sound monitoring. You can choose from a range of microphones; making it a versatile choice for professional bat, amphibian, and bird surveys. Pair with an ultrasonic omni-directional microphone for up to 100 nights of full-spectrum recording.
Key Features:
- Dual-channel recording – Captures both ultrasonic bat calls and audible wildlife sounds simultaneously.
- Extended battery life – Designed for long deployments, running for weeks on either 4 or 8 standard AA batteries.
- Built-in GPS - with transect mode. No app or additional module required.
- Compact and robust – Housed in a weather-resistant casing, perfect for outdoor fieldwork in tough conditions.
2. Elekon Batlogger S2 Bat Recorder
The Batlogger S2 is an advanced static bat detector from Elekon, designed for reliable and convenient field recording. With full-spectrum recording and high-quality microphone at a low cost, makes it a great option for ecological surveys and research.
Key Features:
- Full-spectrum recordings – Captures bat calls in high-quality full-spectrum format for detailed analysis.
- Energy-efficient design – Low power consumption extends deployment time in the field.
- User-friendly interface – Simple setup using the Batlogger app with intuitive software for quick deployment.
- Easy to use - Charging and data extraction via the included USB-C cable, and easy-to-replace ultrasonic microphone.
3. Wildlife Acoustics SM4BAT-FS Bat Recorder with SMM-U2 microphone
The Song Meter SM4BAT-FS is a trusted favourite among bat ecologists, known for its long battery life and high-quality recordings when paired with the latest SMM-U2 ultrasonic microphone. Designed for extended deployments, it’s perfect for large-scale surveys and research projects. Pair with the new, exclusive solar power kit to extend the battery life even further.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading battery life – Runs for up to 450 hours on four D-cell batteries, and with optional solar power kit making it ideal for long-term monitoring.
- Weatherproof and durable – Built to withstand harsh environments and long deployments.
- Advanced scheduling options – Customisable recording schedules to optimise battery life and storage.
- Excellent customer support - Wildlife Acoustics' unmatched 3-year warranty for SM4 family of recorders
4. Wildlife Acoustics Song Meter Mini 2 Bat
The Song Meter Mini 2 Bat is a compact and cost-effective static recorder from Wildlife Acoustics. It's a great option for researchers needing an affordable, lightweight and easy-to-deploy solution without compromising on recording quality. Available as both AA and Lithium-ion battery options for power flexibility.
Key Features:
- Compact and lightweight – Smaller than traditional units, making it easy to deploy and conceal.
- Bluetooth connectivity – Configurable via a smartphone app for quick and easy setup.
- Flexible power options – Runs on AA batteries or Lithium-ion batteries for extended use.
- Affordable yet powerful – A great choice for those needing high-quality recordings on a budget.
5. Elekon Batlogger A+ Bat Recorder
The Batlogger A+ is an efficient and reliable static bat detector, offering excellent sensitivity and a long recording duration. It's a great choice for professionals needing a simple yet high-quality recording solution.
Key Features:
- High-sensitivity microphone – Ensures clear and accurate bat call recordings.
- Extended recording time – Designed for long-term field deployments.
- Easy data transfer – Uses a standard SD card for simple data retrieval.
- Weather-resistant design – Built to handle outdoor conditions with ease.
Which Static Bat Detector is Right for You?
Choosing the best static bat detector depends on your survey needs. If you need long deployment times and high-quality recordings, the SM4BAT-FS is a solid choice. If portability is key, the Song Meter Mini 2 is a great lightweight option. For versatility, the Titley Ranger stands out with its dual-channel recording, while the Batlogger S2 and A+ provide excellent full-spectrum performance.
How long do these detectors last in the field?
Battery life varies by model. The SM4BAT-FS can run for over 450 hours, while the Batlogger A+ and Titley Ranger also have efficient power management for long deployments. The Song Meter Mini 2 Bat is more compact but still offers up to 50 10-hour nights with 8x AA batteries or up to 125 10-hour nights with Lithium-ion batteries
Can I leave a static bat detector outside in bad weather?
Yes! All of these detectors are designed for outdoor use, with weather-resistant casings to withstand rain, wind, and varying temperatures. However, proper placement and additional weatherproofing (such as a protective housing) can help extend their lifespan.
How do I analyse the data from my recordings?
Most detectors come with compatible software for reviewing and analysing bat calls. Wildlife Acoustics' Kaleidoscope Pro, Elekon’s BatExplorer analysis software, and Titley’s Anabat Insight are popular options for processing and identifying bat species.
What’s the difference between full-spectrum and zero-crossing?
Full-spectrum (FS) recording captures the entire bat call waveform, allowing for more detailed analysis and species identification. Zero-crossing (ZC) recording simplifies the data by focusing on frequency shifts, making it more efficient in terms of storage and analysis but with slightly less detail. ZC recording is now being phased out as an accepted evidence for professional ecologists, but can still be used on research or other projects.
If you're a beginner bat enthusiast, take a look at our blog on handheld bat detectors; great for when you're starting out. You can also find more out about bat surveying here.
Still unsure? Get in touch with us at Wildcare – we’re always happy to help! Email us via [email protected] or call 01451 833181
