Single Chamber Bat House Plans : House Plans

Single Chamber Bat House Plans

Bats are fascinating creatures that play a vital role in our ecosystem. They are the only mammals capable of true flight and are essential pollinators for many plants. Unfortunately, bat populations have been declining in recent years due to habitat loss and other factors. One way to help bats is to build them a bat house. Bat houses provide a safe and sheltered place for bats to roost and raise their young.

There are many different types of bat houses available, but single chamber bat houses are one of the most popular. They are relatively easy to build and can be placed in a variety of locations. Single chamber bat houses are typically made of wood or plastic and have a single chamber that is divided into two compartments. The larger compartment is for the bats to roost in, while the smaller compartment is for the bats to raise their young. Single chamber bat houses should be placed in a sunny location that is at least 10 feet off the ground. The house should also be painted a dark color to help it absorb heat.

Once you have built or purchased a single chamber bat house, you will need to find a suitable location for it. The best locations for bat houses are in areas where there are a lot of bats, such as near a forest or body of water. You should also make sure that the location is protected from the wind and rain. Once you have found a suitable location, you can install the bat house by attaching it to a tree or post.

Bats are typically very curious creatures and will often investigate a new bat house. However, it may take some time for them to move in. You can help to attract bats to your bat house by placing a few drops of vanilla extract on the inside. You can also place a few pieces of fruit or insects near the entrance to the house. Once bats have moved into your bat house, they will likely use it for many years to come.

Single chamber bat houses are a great way to help bats and provide them with a safe place to roost and raise their young. By building or purchasing a single chamber bat house, you can help to make a difference in the lives of these amazing creatures.

Materials You'll Need

1/2-inch plywood
1/4-inch plywood
1x4 boards
1x2 boards
Wood screws
Nails
Paint (optional)

Tools You'll Need

Saw
Drill
Screwdriver
Hammer
Measuring tape
Level

Instructions

Cut the following pieces of wood:

Two 16-inch x 24-inch pieces of 1/2-inch plywood for the sides
Two 16-inch x 12-inch pieces of 1/2-inch plywood for the roof and bottom
Two 12-inch x 12-inch pieces of 1/4-inch plywood for the dividers
Two 12-inch x 4-inch pieces of 1x4 board for the roosting shelf
Two 12-inch x 2-inch pieces of 1x2 board for the entrance

Assemble the sides and bottom of the bat house by screwing the sides to the bottom. Make sure that the sides are flush with the bottom. Attach the dividers to the sides, spacing them evenly apart.
Attach the roof to the sides by screwing it into place. Make sure that the roof is flush with the sides.
Attach the roosting shelf to the inside of the bat house, about 6 inches from the bottom. Attach the entrance to the front of the bat house, about 3 inches from the bottom.
Paint the bat house with a dark color, such as black or brown. This will help it to absorb heat and make it more attractive to bats.

Tips

Place the bat house in a sunny location that is at least 10 feet off the ground.
Make sure that the bat house is protected from the wind and rain.
Place a few drops of vanilla extract on the inside of the bat house to attract bats.
Place a few pieces of fruit or insects near the entrance to the house to attract bats.