Setting Up a Bat House

Bats are a unique and interesting species whose population is declining across the country. Help preserve bats- and discover an ecologically-sound solution to unwanted insects at the same time- by adding a bat house to your yard.

How to Choose a Bat House
There are a few guidelines to follow when choosing a bat house. The house must have a ready-made landing area, and must have roughened surfaces to allow the bats to cling. Bat houses should be durable enough to withstand weather conditions, and must be free of protruding nails or sharp edges that could cause injury. Buying a ready-made bat house should ensure that you get one that is built to the proper specifications.

Mounting a Bat House
Bat houses come in a wide variety of styles and designs. Some are designed to hang flat against the exterior wall of a house or garage, while others can be mounted on a post or on the corner of a roof overhang. Regardless of where you decide to mount your bat house, make sure that it is at least ten feet above the ground and receives six to seven hours of open sun a day. This usually means orientating it so that it faces south or southeast. This will ensure that the interior of the house is warm enough for the bats during the night.

The color of the bat house matters, too. If you live in a hot sunny climate, light colors on the walls and roof of the bat house are fine. But if you live in a colder area, consider a dark-colored bat house, preferably with a black roof, so that it absorbs as much sun during the day as possible. This will help ensure the warmth and safety of the bats roosting inside and keep them coming back.