<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>We overview an autecological study of the endangered greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum in south-west England. Bats from a woodland site generally emerged earlier than did bats from an exposed roost, except in early spring when tree leaf cover was minimal. Foliage around the roost may benefit bats by extending foraging time and reducing predation. Bats older than one year foraged between 2 and 4 km from their day roosts. Hence conservation of foraging habitats within this range is important. Ancient semi-natural deciduous woodland was used intensively by foraging bats during spring, while during late summer the bats fed mainly over pasture. Woodland was usually warmer than pasture, and the relative temperature difference between the two habitats was greatest at low temperatures. Insect abundance increased rapidly above 6-10 °C. Hence, in spring, it may be more profitable for bats to forage in woodland. The shift to feeding over pasture was associated with the dominance of Aphodius dung beetles in the diet during summer. Juveniles foraged independently of their mothers before weaning. Prime foraging habitat close to the maternity roost is probably important to initial and long-term juvenile survival. The hibernation requirements of R. ferrumequinum are briefly reviewed. Insights into the foraging needs (e.g. commuting distances) of other species may be gained from predictions based on flight morphology.</jats:p>