Bat House Forum

[19John62]

I've looked at many plans and designs of bat houses. Some are taller than wide and some are wider than tall. I was thinking of building my first house about 16 to 18 inches wide and 20 to 22 inches tall using 2x6 for the sides.

Any input would be appreciated.

[cloudman75]

This is a link to the plan I used. My advice would be build one with about 3 chambers for your first attempt. They tend to get heavy and expensive for materials. I used 1x6 white wood for the sides and plywood for the rest. I used two coats waterbased latex paint. The color depends on how hot it is where the bat house is located. I painted mine blue because it gets in the mid 90's quite often here, and not all that uncommon for 100. I have read that 36 inches tall minimum is a good dimension so the bats can go up and down to seek the temperature they want during the day.Take a look at this plan and modify it to suit your needs if you like it. This is a maternity type house and has worked well for me for several years. I chose this one because I am not too handy with wood tools. There are several plans on this forum for other designs and sizes.  My first house was purchased and 24 inches high, 14 inches wide, three chambers. It grew too small after 2 seasons of use because of the heat I think. The bats hung out side on the landing board after they numbered 34. I built a larger house because of that reason. The smaller house is still in place but no bats this year. Good luck. Don't paint the inside at all. The plan calls for scoring the baffles but plastic screening material can be used with staples. stainless staples are prefered to attach the screening. I am sure you may get some good advice from others who are more experienced than I at building houses for bats. The net is also a good source for sure.

http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/er/publications/bat_house/part_details_1.htm

 

[IowaNate]

 Hello John. A house 16-18" wide and 20-22" tall is a great start. A house with at least three chambers has the best success at attracting nursery colonies when mounted appropriately and in a good location. And when mounted in a good location even single chambered houses that are built well have good success at attracting bats. Cloudman's suggestion for a house is a great plan, although it might weigh in excess of 40 pounds so that is something to consider when attempting to mount it.

[19John62]

Thanks for the help, I will keep everyone posted on the progress.