{"id":3380,"date":"2024-12-05T09:48:11","date_gmt":"2024-12-05T17:48:11","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/2025\/12\/10\/how-to-build-a-bat-house-to-attract-more-bats-to-your-yard\/"},"modified":"2025-12-10T05:22:46","modified_gmt":"2025-12-10T13:22:46","slug":"how-to-build-a-bat-house-to-attract-more-bats-to-your-yard","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/?p=3380","title":{"rendered":"How To Build A Bat House To Attract More Bats To Your Yard"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"entry-content mvt-content\">\n<style><![CDATA[img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:71.97265625%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:136.35153129161%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-12::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-12{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-13::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-13{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-14::before{padding-top:66.69921875%; }img#mv-trellis-img-14{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-15::before{padding-top:68.65234375%; }img#mv-trellis-img-15{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-16::before{padding-top:134.91436100132%; }img#mv-trellis-img-16{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-17::before{padding-top:149.70760233918%; }img#mv-trellis-img-17{display:block;}]]><\/style>\n<div class=\"dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden\" style=\"display: none;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1-150x150.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1.jpg\" data-pin-description=\"Building a bat house is the best way to attract bats to your yard and here's how to easily build one. \" class=\"skip-lazy a3-notlazy no-lazyload dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden-inner  dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden-single\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"737\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='737'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20737'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8312 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/how-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/how-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x737.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/how-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x737.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/how-to-build-a-bat-house-300x216.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/how-to-build-a-bat-house-768x553.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/how-to-build-a-bat-house-720x518.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/how-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>DIY bat house made from untreated lumber, coated with natural outdoor wood stain.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Just as there are several ways to attract bats to your yard, there is more than one way to build a bat house. <\/p>\n<p>But before you blindly choose a bat house plan, you should become aware of why, how and where your intended bat house fits into your landscape. <\/p>\n<p>Think of adding a bat house to your garden, or the side of your home, as a simple and necessary act of rewilding. <\/p>\n<p>Rewilding your neighborhood, rewilding your city or state, rewilding yourself and nature in general. <\/p>\n<p>After all, we have plenty of land and resources to share \u2013 and so much to gain when we work with nature, instead of against it. <\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-attract-bats\">Why attract bats?<\/h2>\n<p>Are you the kind of person who heads out for a walk at dusk, in joyous anticipation of seeing these magnificent flying creatures?<\/p>\n<p>Or are you covering your head as you sit outside by the campfire the moment something mysteriously flies by?<\/p>\n<p>It is true, some people are afraid of bats, just as there are those who are afraid of dogs, or spiders, or snakes. Add to this list anything that frightens you, but refrain from being put off by the many benefits that bats can provide to your garden.<\/p>\n<p>At least be curious enough to gather information first.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-bats-provide-an-excellent-service-natural-pest-control\">Bats provide an excellent service: natural pest control<\/h3>\n<p>It is known that the average bat can consume around 600 bugs per hour, between 3,000 and 4,200 insects each night. A single colony of 500 bats will catch and eat a million insects each night.<\/p>\n<p>Their diet includes mosquitoes, termites, wasps, beetles, gnats, moths and lacewings.<\/p>\n<p>You can read much more on the benefits of bats here: 4 Ways To Attract Bats To Your Yard (And Why You Should)<\/p>\n<p>If you are struggling with finding an organic balance that doesn\u2019t involve spraying chemicals on your garden to eliminate certain insects, you may want to attract bats to do some of the job for you. <\/p>\n<p>Remember, <strong>rewilding<\/strong> is where the world is heading to help heal collective damage done to the environment. Your job is to make it happen.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-build-a-bat-house\">How to build a bat house<\/h2>\n<p>Now, that you are sure you have a fond affection for these amazing flyers, to build a bat house should be added to your ever growing to-do list.<\/p>\n<p>One quick search across the web and you will find all sizes of bat houses. Which one is right for you? And for the bats? <\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s just say that it depends on where you intend to place your bat house. On a free-standing post, or mounted on the side of your home? <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='683'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20683%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8313 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/where-to-hang-your-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/where-to-hang-your-bat-house-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/where-to-hang-your-bat-house-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/where-to-hang-your-bat-house-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/where-to-hang-your-bat-house-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/where-to-hang-your-bat-house-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/where-to-hang-your-bat-house.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Adding a bat house to the side of our home. Bats are always coming around this corner in summer!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If you are placing a bat house on a tree, you might want to choose a narrower design that does not stick out too far from the trunk. <\/p>\n<p>Use caution, however, when placing a bat house on a tree, as bats will also exercise their caution. In a tree, bats are easier caught by predators, the branches create shade (which makes their home colder) and obstruct the entrance\/exit, making life more difficult for the bats.<\/p>\n<p>Placed on the outside wall of your home, a bat house can be any size, within reason. Though bats do have their preferences. Some bat houses are 2\u2032 x 3\u2032, while some have had success with smaller homes of 14\u2033 by 24\u2033. <\/p>\n<p>One measurement that is perhaps more important than either size or shape is <strong>the space that the bats will roost in<\/strong>. This space is generally 1\/2\u2033 to 3\/4\u2033. <\/p>\n<p>If you would like to attract bats to your garden, yet lack the skills or the tools to build a bat box yourself, you can always buy a variety of bat boxes online. This Kenley Bat house with a double chamber is weather-resistant and ready to install. <\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-when-will-the-bats-come\">When will the bats come?<\/h2>\n<p>Maybe it is too early to answer the question, yet everyone always wants to know the answer\u2026<\/p>\n<p>There is never any guarantee that bats will take up temporary residence in your bat house, but when they do, you will be ready. <\/p>\n<p>Providing bats with a place to roost, combined with garden features (water, bugs and plants), along with a good location, is key to attracting them. And in encouraging them to return year after year. <\/p>\n<p>Overall, it may take 2-3 years until bats take up residence, so don\u2019t get discouraged too quickly.<\/p>\n<p>To encourage good bat house design and placement, it is wise to find out why some bat houses fail. In this way, you can learn from the mistakes of others.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-choosing-a-location-for-your-bat-house\">Choosing a location for your bat house<\/h3>\n<p>I know it is exciting to get started! Though before you go ahead with your own bat house building plans it is also good to know where that bat house of yours should be placed.<\/p>\n<p>The best location for a bat house is:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>sunny, with about 6 hours of sunlight each day<\/li>\n<li>south to southeast facing<\/li>\n<li>near a source of water (within 1\/4 mile)<\/li>\n<li>sheltered by winds, if possible<\/li>\n<li>high up, 8-20 feet above the ground<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you have a combination of those conditions, you are free to start collecting materials to build a bat house.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-choosing-wood-to-build-a-bat-house\">Choosing wood to build a bat house<\/h3>\n<p>Bats are sensitive creatures. <\/p>\n<p>As such, you should refrain from using treated wood (which is toxic to bats) when building a bat house.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, opt for naturally weather-resistant woods such as cedar, white oak or reclaimed barn wood. These will last longer than soft pine, though you can still use this softer wood if your bat house will be sheltered or below an awning. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8314 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/use-untreated-wood-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/use-untreated-wood-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/use-untreated-wood-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/use-untreated-wood-to-build-a-bat-house-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/use-untreated-wood-to-build-a-bat-house-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/use-untreated-wood-to-build-a-bat-house-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/use-untreated-wood-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>A combination of untreated beech and fir boards, already cut to size.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Plywood can also be used, although it may be better for other homestead projects. Never use pressure-treated wood.<\/p>\n<p>Since you will need to make grooves in the wood, for the bats to hang from, be sure the back of the bat house is constructed from solid piece(s).<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gathering-materials-to-build-a-bat-house\">Gathering materials to build a bat house<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8315 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/tools-and-equipment-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/tools-and-equipment-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/tools-and-equipment-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/tools-and-equipment-to-build-a-bat-house-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/tools-and-equipment-to-build-a-bat-house-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/tools-and-equipment-to-build-a-bat-house-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/tools-and-equipment-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>You can build a bat house with hand tools. Or with power tools if you have them.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As far as materials go, you will need to gather:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>pre-cut wood<\/li>\n<li>measuring tape<\/li>\n<li>nails, or screws, exterior grade<\/li>\n<li>4 L-shaped brackets<\/li>\n<li>drill<\/li>\n<li>table saw or hand saw<\/li>\n<li>chisel or utility knife<\/li>\n<li>clamps <\/li>\n<li>natural dark wood stain or sealant<\/li>\n<li>paintbrush<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For a more comprehensive guide on building a bat house, check out the National Heritage Conservation \u2013 Wisconsin Bat Program PDF. <\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cutting-out-the-pieces\">Cutting out the pieces<\/h2>\n<p>In an ideal world, you could build a bat house out of 6 pieces of wood.<\/p>\n<p>But, life doesn\u2019t always hand you the size of wood you like. When was the last time you came across an almost 20\u2033 width of solid board? Nowadays that would come from a very mature tree. And I am sure that bats would appreciate that old tree over a cut down and reassembled version any day.<\/p>\n<p>So, what we are looking at when building a bat house is using boards. <\/p>\n<p>We will share the dimensions we used to make ours, just know that yours may turn out slightly different. Especially if you are using reclaimed wood. This is all well and good, provided that everything lines up. <\/p>\n<p>Think of it as cooking without a recipe, yet having all the ingredients. It will always work out in the end. <\/p>\n<p>You may even wish to read more about criteria for successful bat houses before deciding on measurements of your own.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-wood-sizes-for-our-diy-bat-house\">Wood sizes for our DIY bat house<\/h3>\n<p>Using both untreated beech and fir boards to create our bat house, we came up with these \u201creclaimed\u201d sizes:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>5 pieces of 1\u2033 x 8\u2033 x 19 1\/2\u2033 (2.5 x 20 x 50 cm) for front and back of house<\/li>\n<li>2 pieces of 1\u2033 x 1 1\/4\u2033 x 19 1\/2\u2033 (2.5 x 3 x 50 cm) for provide roosting space<\/li>\n<li>1 piece of 1\u2033 x 3 1\/2\u2033 x 19 1\/2 \u201d (2.5 x 9 x 50 cm) for the front, which provides a small air gap<\/li>\n<li>1 piece of 1\u2033 x 3 1\/2\u2033 x 21\u2033 (2.5 x 9 x 53 cm) to cap the top of the bat house<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-overall-dimensions-of-finished-bat-house\">Overall dimensions of finished bat house:<\/h3>\n<p>width: 19 1\/2\u2033 (50 cm)<\/p>\n<p>height: 23 1\/2\u2033 (60 cm) <\/p>\n<p>depth of box: 3 1\/4\u2033 (8.5 cm) with the cap\u2019s additional overhang of more than an inch<\/p>\n<p>roosting space: 1\u2033 (2.5 cm)<\/p>\n<p>If you are building a bat house with more than one chamber, bats will prefer roosting spaces of 3\/4\u2033 to 1\u2033. <\/p>\n<p>You also need to provide the bats with a roughly grooved landing pad. <\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-putting-your-bat-house-together\">Putting your bat house together<\/h2>\n<p>Start with the basics and create the essential part of the bat house first \u2013 the landing pad and roosting chamber.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8316 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/using-a-chisel-and-hammer-to-make-grooves-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/using-a-chisel-and-hammer-to-make-grooves-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/using-a-chisel-and-hammer-to-make-grooves-to-build-a-bat-house-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/using-a-chisel-and-hammer-to-make-grooves-to-build-a-bat-house-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/using-a-chisel-and-hammer-to-make-grooves-to-build-a-bat-house-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/using-a-chisel-and-hammer-to-make-grooves-to-build-a-bat-house-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/using-a-chisel-and-hammer-to-make-grooves-to-build-a-bat-house.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>Avoid using plastic mesh or wire inside the bat house that can hurt the bats as they get stuck.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, provide something easy to grab onto. It takes some time to use a chisel to create grooves for the bats to climb and cling on, though it looks nice, rough and natural all at the same time.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"751\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='751'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20751%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8317 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/finished-boards-with-grooves.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/finished-boards-with-grooves-751x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/finished-boards-with-grooves-751x1024.jpg 751w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/finished-boards-with-grooves-220x300.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/finished-boards-with-grooves-768x1047.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/finished-boards-with-grooves-720x982.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/finished-boards-with-grooves.jpg 880w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>The entire inside of the bat house should be filled with horizontal grooves. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Outside of using a chisel to carve, you could also employ a circular saw to do the job in a quicker, albeit more orderly, fashion.<\/p>\n<p>With the set of three back boards side by side, it is now time to hold them together.<\/p>\n<p>The choice to use nails or screws is up to you. Nails may be less complicated to work with, but screws (combined with the use of a power drill) will last longer. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='683'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20683%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8323 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/making-sure-everything-fits-before-putting-bat-house-together.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/making-sure-everything-fits-before-putting-bat-house-together-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/making-sure-everything-fits-before-putting-bat-house-together-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/making-sure-everything-fits-before-putting-bat-house-together-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/making-sure-everything-fits-before-putting-bat-house-together-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/making-sure-everything-fits-before-putting-bat-house-together-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/making-sure-everything-fits-before-putting-bat-house-together.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Check to see that your measurements are lining up!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-attaching-the-pieces-of-your-bat-house\">Attaching the pieces of your bat house<\/h3>\n<p>Now, that your grooves are done, you can add the side laces. This creates the space for the roosting chamber.<\/p>\n<p>Be sure to drop each piece down from the top (about 1\u2033), leaving just enough space to attach your top cap which prevents water from getting in.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8318 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hammering-side-laces.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hammering-side-laces-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hammering-side-laces-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hammering-side-laces-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hammering-side-laces-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hammering-side-laces-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hammering-side-laces.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Attaching the side laces to create the roosting chamber.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Once both side laces are secured, it is time to add the front pieces of the bat house.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='683'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20683%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8319 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/laces-on-and-ready-to-add-front-of-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/laces-on-and-ready-to-add-front-of-bat-house-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/laces-on-and-ready-to-add-front-of-bat-house-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/laces-on-and-ready-to-add-front-of-bat-house-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/laces-on-and-ready-to-add-front-of-bat-house-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/laces-on-and-ready-to-add-front-of-bat-house-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/laces-on-and-ready-to-add-front-of-bat-house.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>How many nails\/screws it takes to put your bat house together, will depend on the wood you are using. Never underestimate physics or aesthetics either.<\/p>\n<p>Next, you can add the 3 front pieces. <\/p>\n<p>Starting from the top (still leaving a 1\u2033 space to attach the top board), secure the two larger boards next to each other. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='683'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20683%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8320 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/beginning-to-look-like-a-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/beginning-to-look-like-a-bat-house-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/beginning-to-look-like-a-bat-house-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/beginning-to-look-like-a-bat-house-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/beginning-to-look-like-a-bat-house-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/beginning-to-look-like-a-bat-house-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/beginning-to-look-like-a-bat-house.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>Once all three front boards are attached, you can attach the overhanging top piece. <\/p>\n<p>With the hard work over, comes staining and waterproofing. That\u2019s the fun part of the project \u2013 that and seeing the first visitors arriving and leaving to capture their food. <\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-color-to-paint-your-bat-house\">What color to paint your bat house?<\/h2>\n<p>Bats prefer heat where they sleep. If you live in a colder climate, such as with four seasons, bat houses need to be painted a dark color.<\/p>\n<p>Grey or darkly stained wood is good. Mahogany is worth a try too. Just make sure that your paint or wood stain is as <strong>natural<\/strong> as it gets. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8321 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/painting-or-staining-your-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-12\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/painting-or-staining-your-bat-house-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/painting-or-staining-your-bat-house-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/painting-or-staining-your-bat-house-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/painting-or-staining-your-bat-house-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/painting-or-staining-your-bat-house-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/painting-or-staining-your-bat-house.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8322 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/applying-wood-stain-to-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-13\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/applying-wood-stain-to-bat-house-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/applying-wood-stain-to-bat-house-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/applying-wood-stain-to-bat-house-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/applying-wood-stain-to-bat-house-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/applying-wood-stain-to-bat-house-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/applying-wood-stain-to-bat-house.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Work outside, or in a well-ventilated space to apply the natural wood stain on the back, front, top and sides.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Let this stain dry for a couple of days before adding the L-shaped brackets.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8324 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hanging-your-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-14\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hanging-your-bat-house-1024x683.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hanging-your-bat-house-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hanging-your-bat-house-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hanging-your-bat-house-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hanging-your-bat-house-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/hanging-your-bat-house.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<p>Once your bat house is complete, go ahead and hang it! <\/p>\n<p>Bats will be looking to move in come spring time, so the best time to hang your bat house is late winter or very early spring. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"703\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='703'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20703'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8325 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-15\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-1024x703.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-1024x703.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-735x505.jpg 735w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-335x230.jpg 335w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-347x238.jpg 347w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-520x357.jpg 520w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-640x439.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-768x527.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-960x659.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-1080x742.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home-720x494.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/location-of-bat-house-on-side-of-home.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Bats frequent this secluded corner of our home all throughout summer and fall. The only potential predators are the neighbor\u2019s cats.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-do-you-need-more-than-one-bat-house\">Do you need more than one bat house?<\/h2>\n<p>Again, it all depends on how much space you have to offer. And what amenities surround you.<\/p>\n<p>If you already see bats at dusk between spring and fall, chances are better that they will discover your ready-made home. However, if you haven\u2019t seen a bat yet, you can still give it a try.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='759'%20height='1024'%20viewBox='0%200%20759%201024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8326 perfmatters-lazy\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/diy-bat-house.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-16\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/diy-bat-house-759x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/diy-bat-house-759x1024.jpg 759w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/diy-bat-house-222x300.jpg 222w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/diy-bat-house-768x1037.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/diy-bat-house-720x972.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/diy-bat-house.jpg 889w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><figcaption>Inconspicuous from a distance on a southeast facing wall. Just above the cellar.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>In the case for trying out more than one bat house, you may find that they prefer a certain color, or a sunnier location, or even a different style of box. <\/p>\n<p>It takes time to attract bats, so don\u2019t assume that you are doing something wrong. <\/p>\n<p>Just wait it out. But, don\u2019t be inactive! Plant attractive flowers in your night garden, install a water feature in your backyard and make sure your garden is as hospitable as it can be for bats. <\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='342'%20height='512'%20viewBox='0%200%20342%20512'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8366 perfmatters-lazy\" width=\"342\" height=\"512\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-17\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1-683x1024.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1-720x1080.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.ruralsprout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/BAT-HOUSE-1.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<style type=\"text\/css\"><![CDATA[\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-body{font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:11px;color:#000000;background-image:none;background-position:inherit;background-repeat:no-repeat;padding-top:15px;padding-bottom:15px;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-body .privacyPolicy{font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:11px;color:#000000;}\n#af-form-1000191877 {border: 0;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-standards .af-element{padding-left:15px;padding-right:15px;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-quirksMode{padding-left:15px;padding-right:15px;}\n#af-form-1000191877 .af-header{font-family:Verdana, 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Just as there are several ways to&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3381,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[127],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3380","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diy-projects"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3380","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3380"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3380\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3406,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3380\/revisions\/3406"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3381"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3380"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=3380"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/digitvsolutions.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=3380"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}