Bats have over the years been persecuted by humans due to fear but what most people don’t know is that bats are very important to our environment. One of the many reasons why people want to co exist with bats on their properties is because the offer an effective mosquito control.
Below we shall review some of the best bat houses for mosquito control and you will learn why it is important to own one on your property.
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Why have a bat house?
Putting all the negative remarks that people make about bats like how they carry rabies or how they are associated to vampires, bats actually help to control flying insects mosquitoes included. So are they really effective in controlling mosquitoes or is it just another myth? You will be surprised at how effective bats can be when it comes to controlling mosquitoes.
It is proven that bats can eat 1000 to 1200 mosquitoes in a period of one hour. Isn’t that effective enough? Well it sure is because that is a big number and it can make bats more effective than some devices.
If you need more reason to have bat houses on your property, then how about helping them to thrive more. Like we mentioned before, bats have been and are still being persecuted a lot by humans which means in years to come their species may be wiped out.
So you can do your part and help them out by providing a descent home for them. Fact is a female bat will only give birth to one pup once a year. Pups mortality rate in uncertain environments are very low so a bat house will give them a home while helping you to wipe out those annoying mosquitoes and other flying insects.
How to Build a Bat House
Before you begin building, you will need to get a few supplies that will help you build your very own bat house on your property. You will need the following;
- Deck screws
- Latex caulk
- Dark satin
- Roof board
- Shingles
- Non pressure treated plywood
- 8ft pine 1x 2 inches
- Saws
- Roofing nails
Start with the backboard of the bat house by cutting grooves in it. Make sure that each groove is 1 inch apart from each other. The backboard will act as the wall for them to cling to.Next you can satin the insides and then attach the pieces. You can either use the screws, caulk or even the nails whichever you see fit.
Remember that bats don’t require a roomy space that is why they are often found in between barks and tree trunks. Smaller spaces also offer them warmth between 800 and 1000.
When making their home you will have to use dark satin, shingles as well as caulking to provide them with the necessary warmth. For the same reason, make sure to place the house facing downwards and where there is plenty of sunshine.
Can I mount a bat house on a tree?
It is not advisable to mount the bat house on a tree because they tend to receive less sunlight among the leaves and branches, the branches obstruct them to drop into flights and they can be vulnerable to some tree predators. It is safe to place them on steel poles, wooden posts, side of buildings and pivot poles.
Recommended 5 Best Bat House
To get the best out of bat houses for mosquito control, it is advisable to purchase a bat house instead of building one on your own. Below are some of the best bat house you will find on the market effective for mosquito control.
1. Locker Products Triple Chamber Bat House
This bat house will house up to 300 bats meaning you will have 300 mosquito eating bats that will effectively help to control them. It is equipped with attractants that are 80% more successful in attracting bats compared to its completion.
It also features mounting holes at the top to make mounting quick and easy immediately the house arrives to you.
Furthermore, it is made from cedar and exterior grade plywood which is durable and it will withstand harsh weather conditions. It has a landing pad with a nylon mesh for them to easily maneuver the house. The house is also well ventilated for proper air circulation.
2. OBC Endorsed Uncle Dunkels Triple Chamber Bat House
This house also houses up to 300 bats which is a great solution to getting rid of those pesky disease carrying insects. It is endorsed by the organization for bat conservation.
This bat house will also naturally attract bats with the help of the poplar tree bark cladding that is used to mimic loose tree barks that bats seek out for nesting. It is also handmade with high grade materials to offer a waterproof house that can withstand drafts.
3. Audubon Bat Shelter
This bat house has a holding capacity of up to 20 bats. If you are looking to have just a few bats in your home then this can be a good option. It is equipped with 2 inch zinc plated screws to offer a hanging area for the bats.
It is made from rough cedar to offer a solid house that can withstand rough weather conditions. It comes ready to mount with the pre drilled holes. It is a great addition to your backyard and it will effectively control mosquitoes.
4. Coveside Mini Wooden Bat Box House
Another small hold capacity bat house is the Coveside mini wooden bat house. This unit has a holding capacity of only 12 bats and it comes at an affordable price.
It is hand crafted in Maine and the one year warranty will ensure that all quality issues are taken care of. It offers the best insulation that the bats need. You will not need any noisy bug zappers or chemicals to deal with insects when you invest in this unit.
5. Looker Songbird Essentials Bat House
This bat house will hold up to 100 bats and it is approved by the organization for bat conservation. It features weather resistant cedar and a plywood exterior.
It is also equipped with a landing area for quick and easy entrance. The nylon interior mesh offers easy maneuverability and proper ventilation for the bats. If you are looking to have a medium number of bats for mosquito control on your property, then this may be a good option.
