How to Make a Bat House

Bats are amazing! They're like tiny superheroes, flying around and keeping the insect population in check. They also help plants grow by spreading seeds and pollen. But sadly, there are fewer bats than before because their homes are disappearing. That's where you come in! Building a bat house is like giving them a cozy apartment in your backyard, helping them thrive.

Why Build a Bat House?

Besides being good for the environment, there are other cool reasons to build a bat house.

• Say goodbye to pesky bugs! Bats are natural pest controllers, munching on tons of insects every night. That means fewer mosquitoes, less itching, and fewer diseases they might carry.
• Helping plants bloom and spread. Some bats are like little gardeners, helping plants pollinate and spread seeds. They make sure our gardens are full of yummy fruits and flowers.
• A home for our furry friends. Bats are facing tough times, so giving them a place to live helps them survive.
• Your backyard will be even cooler! Imagine having bats zipping around your yard. It's like having a mini wildlife show right in your own home!

Choosing the Right Spot

You want your bat house to be a hit, so picking the right location is key.

• Sunshine is a must. Bats love sunny spots. Think of it like a warm, cozy house for them. At least six hours of sunlight is perfect.
• High and safe. You don't want predators like cats bothering them. Mount it 15-20 feet high, making it safe and out of sight.
• South or southeast is best. Just like a house, the entrance should face the sun for warmth and light.
• A sip of water is always good. Bats need water too, so a pond or stream nearby is a big plus.
• Clear the way! Make sure there are no trees or power lines that could block their flight path.

Building Your Bat House

Let's get those hammers and nails ready! Here's what you'll need to build a comfy bat home.

• Wood, wood, wood! Use untreated lumber like cedar, pine, or redwood. They're tough and resist rot.
• Strong screws for durability. Avoid nails, they can crack the wood.
• A light paint job, if you want. White or gray reflects heat, making it cooler inside.
• A roof to keep the rain out. Asphalt shingles or metal roofing are good choices.
• Hardware cloth: This is a mesh that makes the entrance. Use one with small openings (1/2 inch or smaller).

Bat House Plans

There are tons of designs, but here are the basic parts of a bat house:

1. Base: The bottom of the house. Think of it like the floor. It should be at least 12 inches wide and deep.
2. Sides: The walls. They should be about 12 inches tall and attached to the base and the top.
3. Top: The roof. It should slope to let water drain and overhang the base to keep rain out.
4. Entrance: This is how bats get in. It's usually a slot on the bottom third of the front panel. It should be at least 1/2 inch wide and 12 inches long.
5. Interior Dividers: These are like little rooms for the bats. They should be spaced 1-2 inches apart.

Building Steps

1. Cut the wood: Use a saw or a power saw, but be careful! Wear safety goggles and a dust mask.
2. Assemble the base: Attach the sides to the base with screws. Pre-drill holes to stop the wood from splitting.
3. Attach the top: Connect the top to the sides. The top should stick out a little over the base to make a roof.
4. Cut the entrance: Use a saw to make a slot for the bats to enter.
5. Install the hardware cloth: Cut a piece that's a bit bigger than the entrance and attach it with screws or staples.
6. Add dividers: Cut pieces of wood and attach them to the sides to make the roosting compartments.
7. Paint the exterior: If you want to paint it, use light colors.
8. Install the roof: Attach the roofing material to the top, sealing any gaps to prevent leaks.
9. Mount it high! Mount it at least 15-20 feet above the ground, facing south or southeast.

Tips for Success

Follow these tips to make your bat house a real hit:

• Early bird gets the bat! Spring is the best time to put it up. This gives them time to get settled before they have baby bats.
• Leave them alone! Once they're living there, especially during baby season (May-August), don't disturb them. They might leave their babies.
• Keep them hydrated. A pond or stream is ideal, but you can also put out a shallow dish of water for them to drink.
• Clean up the area. Keep the space around the house free of clutter. Bats like it clean.
• Keep an eye on your bat house. Check it regularly to make sure it's in good shape and the bats are using it. Look for signs like droppings or bat sounds.

Bat House Maintenance

Just like a regular house, your bat house needs a bit of TLC to keep it in good shape. Here's how:

• Check it out each year: Look for cracks, holes, or loose screws. Fix any problems right away.
• Clean it up: In the fall, after they leave, clean out any droppings. A broom, vacuum, or garden hose will work.
• Give it a fresh coat: If needed, repaint or re-seal the outside to keep it protected.

Safety First

Bats are great, but remember they're wild animals. Be careful and treat them with respect. Here are some safety tips:

• Keep your distance. If you see a bat, don't touch it. Bats can have rabies, which can be dangerous.
• Don't disturb them. Once they've moved in, don't bother them, especially during baby season.
• Call for help. If you find a bat in your house or have any worries, contact a wildlife rescue group or pest control experts.

FAQs

1. What kind of bats like bat houses?

Most bat houses are for insect-eating bats, like brown bats, big brown bats, and little brown bats. They're common in North America and help keep bugs under control.

2. How long does it take for bats to move in?

Be patient! It might take a few weeks or months for them to discover your house. Don't give up if you don't see them right away.

3. What are some signs they're using the house?

You'll see droppings (guano) inside, bats flying in and out, and hear squeaking or chattering sounds.

4. Is it legal to build a bat house?

In most places, it's perfectly fine. But always check with your local laws to be sure.

Conclusion

Building a bat house is an easy and rewarding way to help wildlife and enjoy all the good things bats bring to your backyard. You're giving them a safe home and they're doing their part to keep the environment healthy. Remember, it might take some time, but with patience and care, you'll create a haven for these amazing creatures.