Bat Box, Bat House What is a Good Design and Mounting Location?

[goeduck]

I searched and found some threads on Bat Boxes (bat houses?) but not as much information as I hoped for. Has anyone tried different designs and have a preference? Also post where you have had the best luck mounting them. I read at least 10 feet up on a south, southeast or east facing location that gets at least 5 hours of sunlight a day, particularly in winter. Not near branches, etc. I am wanting to put one up above my shop rollup door but wonder if the door motoring open will discourage them from nesting. Also if the motion sensor lights and dusk to dawn lights would discourage them. The closest fresh water creek (I live on saltwater) is about 1/2 mile down the beach. I would hope that is close enough.

 

[Old Retired Cop]

I put one up about 3 years ago on the south end of the barn, no other obstructions etc., and still not a bat. But did find a dead one on the electric fence surrounding my garden.

 

[cholland]

Lot of info here plans and kits, etc.
BCI

Bats swoop across water to drink. They don't land. 6-8 feet of unobstructed water surface is enough for smaller bats.
Livestock troughs can be a way to provide water for bats.

 

[ruffdog]

I tried bat boxes and never had luck. People say you have to smear bat poop on a new box to make them feel welcome but I never did that. I do have bats that fly out of my stacks of firewood when I mow past.

 

[goeduck]

I tried bat boxes and never had luck. People say you have to smear bat poop on a new box to make them feel welcome but I never did that. I do have bats that fly out of my stacks of firewood when I mow past.

Where would one get bat poop to smear on a bat box if you do not have bats? :laughing:

Some is probably going to say that Amazon sells it.

 

[nbking]

Had to do it

 

[3Ts]

I am wanting to put one up above my shop rollup door but wonder if the door motoring open will discourage them from nesting.

I don't know about the door motion, but if they do take up residence, you should expect bat guano on whatever is below the box.

 

[boomer1025]

I don't know about the door motion, but if they do take up residence, you should expect bat guano on whatever is below the box.

Not only will the bat guano get on stuff but it's also not something to be around.
Are bat feces dangerous to touch or breathe?

 

[Fuddy1952]

Where would one get bat poop to smear on a bat box if you do not have bats? :laughing:

Some is probably going to say that Amazon sells it.

Bela Lagosi

 

[MFWD]

Hello,
I made a real nice bat box years ago and attached it up about 20 feet on the side of a big pine tree. I never got any bats. Then I read somewhere that you never mount them on trees, always on a building. Hope this helps.

MFWD