How To Make A Bat House Free Plans

Bats are fascinating creatures that play a vital role in our ecosystem. As natural pest controllers, they feed on insects, including mosquitoes, reducing their populations and the risk of diseases. Additionally, their droppings, known as guano, are rich in nutrients and make an excellent natural fertilizer. Therefore, attracting bats to your garden or backyard can be beneficial.

One effective way to attract bats is by providing them with a suitable shelter, such as a bat house. Building a bat house is relatively simple and can be completed using basic tools and materials. Here's a step-by-step guide with free plans to help you create a bat house that will provide a safe and comfortable home for these beneficial mammals:

Materials:

1 piece of exterior-grade plywood (1/2-inch thick)
1 piece of exterior-grade lumber (1x8, 5 feet long)
Wood screws
Wood glue
Paint or stain (optional)
Felt or weatherstripping (optional)

Tools:

Circular saw or jigsaw
Drill
Screwdriver
Clamps
Measuring tape or ruler
Pencil

Instructions:

Step 1: Cut the Plywood

Cut the plywood into three pieces according to the following dimensions:

Front panel: 24 inches x 16 inches
Back panel: 24 inches x 16 inches
Roof panel: 24 inches x 12 inches

Step 2: Cut the Landing Platform

Cut a 4-inch wide landing platform from the 1x8 lumber. It should be 24 inches long.

Step 3: Assemble the Bat House

Apply wood glue to the edges of the back panel and attach the front panel. Clamp them together and secure them with wood screws. Then, attach the roof panel to the top of the front and back panels, again using wood glue and screws.

Step 4: Attach the Landing Platform

Attach the landing platform to the bottom of the front panel, about 3 inches above the bottom edge. Use wood glue and screws to secure it.

Step 5: Install an Entrance Slot

Cut a narrow entrance slot (3/4 inch wide and 2 inches tall) at the bottom of the front panel, centered between the landing platform and the bottom edge.

Step 6: Optional: Add Felt or Weatherstripping

For better insulation, you can line the inside of the bat house with roofing felt or weatherstripping. This will help keep the temperature inside the house stable.

Step 7: Paint or Stain (Optional)

If desired, you can paint or stain the bat house to match your outdoor decor or protect it from the elements.

Step 8: Install the Bat House

Choose a location for the bat house that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Mount the house on a pole or a tree at a height of 10-20 feet above the ground. Face the entrance slot towards the south or east to maximize sunlight exposure.