Plans For A Bat House

Plans for a Bat House

Looking to provide a home for bats in your backyard? Here's a comprehensive guide to help you create a welcoming and functional bat house using a DIY approach.

Materials You'll Need

* 1" × 6" cedar or redwood untreated wood * 1" × 4" cedar or redwood untreated wood * Screws * Wood glue * Hinges * Door latch * Exterior paint or stain (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Back Panel

* Cut a piece of 1" × 6" wood to be 32" tall and 16" wide. * Cut two pieces of 1" × 4" wood to be 16" wide. These will be the side supports for the back panel. * Attach the side supports to the back panel using screws and wood glue.

Step 2: Create the Front Panel

* Cut a piece of 1" × 6" wood to be 24" tall and 22" wide. * Cut two pieces of 1" × 4" wood to be 22" wide. These will be the top and bottom frames for the front panel. * Attach the frames to the front panel using screws and wood glue. * Install a door in the center of the front panel. The door should be large enough for bats to enter and exit, approximately 5" × 10".

Step 3: Assemble the House

* Position the front panel inside the back panel, leaving a 1" gap at the bottom for ventilation. * Secure the front panel to the back panel with screws or wood glue. * Install hinges on one side of the front panel and a latch on the other side to keep the door closed.

Step 4: Create the Landing Platform

* Cut two pieces of 1" × 4" wood to be 10" long. * Attach the landing platform to the bottom of the front panel using screws and wood glue.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

* Paint or stain the bat house to protect it from the elements, if desired. * Install the bat house in a sunny location at least 10-15 feet off the ground, facing south or southeast.

Considerations

* Make sure the bat house is well-ventilated to prevent overheating in the summer. * Choose a location that is protected from wind and rain. * Monitor the bat house for occupancy regularly and clean out any debris as needed. * Avoid disturbing bats during hibernation. * Respect wildlife and observe bats from a distance.