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Install a Bat House

Home > English > What We Do > Bats
  • What We Do
  • Bats
  • The Bat House Program
  • Bats 101
  • What's putting bats at risk?
  • Build Your Own Bat House
  • Install a Box
  • Register an Installed Box
  • Monitor a Box
  • Map of Bat Boxes
  • Evicting Bats

PUT UP A BAT HOUSE

There are a few different ways you can approach this. We have a wonderful three-chamber bat house for sale on the CWF Store, and we also have designs that you can download and build your own. Take a look through our bat-tastic resources to see what works for you!

Installation Guide

You Can Help! Build Your Own Bat House

If you do not have a bat house yet, try building your own! The Canadian Wildlife Federation is here to guide you through every step. Begin by downloading these free DIY instructions.

Build A Bathouse Guide

releasing bats into bat house

Install Your Bat House

When installing your bat box, do your best to stick to several or all of the following guidelines:

  • Height is important. Install the bat box a minimum of 12 feet off the ground.
  • Bats like a warm climate. Make sure the box will get some sun.
    • NOTE: If you worry that your bat box will not get enough sun, paint it with non-toxic black paint so that the sun it does get is more easily absorbed. Do not paint the inside of the house.
  • Install by water. Bats will find the box more easily if there is a water source nearby.
  • Trees are an alright option, but if you can, attach your box to the side of a house or pole instead.
  • Provide open space. Consider a nice open area facing south or southeast to keep bats protected and cozy.

Download this handy checklist to help you with proper bat house installation.

Bat House Checklist

Register an Installed Bat House

Now that you’ve installed your bat house using our helpful tips, please let us know where you put it by sharing the following information:

Read More

Map of Bat Houses

This map shows bat houses that have been installed by schools and groups across the country. Bats need habitat to survive and you can be a part of it! Get started now: order a free bat box* for your own school or...

Read More

Monitor a Bat House

Check each month to see if the box is being used. Fecal matter and urine stains are telltale signs. Listen for sounds. If you can, watch the bat house for an hour or so during sunset when bats would be leaving to...

Read More
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Learn more

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