Bat Boxes

Bat boxes are artificial roosts which are designed to encourage bas into areas where there are few roosting sites. There are a range of designs of bat boxes such as wooden boxes and integrated bat boxes. Different bat species need different spaces.

Bats prefer well insulated boxes where temperature and humidity are constant and they do not like draughts. Bats need a rough textured wood to cling to, however the wood should not be treated as bats are very sensitive to chemicals. Bat boxes also typically feature a ‘bat ladder’ pr ‘landing area’ which leads to an entry slit that is just wide enough to admit bats but is narrow enough to keep out predators.

Bat boxes are more likely to be used if they are located where bats are known to feed and navigate, close to hedges and tree lines. Bat boxes should be installed at least 4m above the ground, sheltered from strong winds and exposed to the sun for part of the day, and should be kept away from artificial light.