Bat House Forum

[jbker]

We have had lots of rain here finally the last couple of days. When this happens my bat population swells. Last not I SWAG'ed 422 bats at departure. That is probably +/- 20 or more because when they are dropping in droves of 15 it is difficult to estimate.

Here is a long shot of the rocket. It is 12 chambers , 4 on each side. They are built around a hollow pressure treated post made with 4 1X6's. This is mounted on a used utility pole that was donated by the local power company. Has not been tested under hurricane conditions but firmly convinced it can stand a cat III storm.



I have some construction pics which I will try to dig up and post.

bernie

[jbker]

Construction photos of rocket:







Joe, hope these came through this time.
bernie

[jbker]

My numbers continue to swell as the rain persists here in S Florida. Last night the number for the 3 bat houses, 12 chamber rocket, single chamber original, and most recent is a 3 chamber with nursing area at top with a port for my small video camera. When the rain stops(slows), I will try to make some pics in it. This is the first time it has had bats other than a few strays. Believe the total number was roughly 600 total last night lots of guano to collect for my "guano bat tea" for the veggie garden.

bernie

[Terry Lobdell]

Bernie, I love that design! I am starting to think rocket boxes with on all 4 sides enclosed in the top 2/3's of the box are better than designs which are open all the way around. Enclosed sides create more of a temperature variation on all 4 sides. How long does it take for them to all exit?

[jbker]

Hi Terry, typically 15-20 minutes unless raining which means some go out then decide to come back

[Joe Spencer]

Bernie, any update for us after these past few months?