Bat Houses
Bats have a bad reputation -- we've all heard stories about blood sucking, vampires, death, and more. However, these are all misconceptions. Bats are fascinating creatures and actually benefit humans by eating undesirable insects. Bats eat an unbelievable number of mosquitoes and other insects each evening - one bat can eat between 1,000 and 3,000 insects each night! Practically all bats are shy and harmless. In fact, one scientist has likened their behavior to "winged hamsters."
You can attract bats for viewing or just to keep down the insects by using a bat house. Bat houses are enjoyed throughout the world by many bat species that also use natural crevices and tree hollows. Bat houses should be mounted on buildings or poles. Houses mounted on trees or metal siding are seldom used. Wooden, brick, or stone buildings with proper solar exposure are excellent choices. Mounting two bat houses back to back on poles is ideal (face one house north, the other south). All bat houses should be mounted at least 12 feet above ground; 15 to 20 feet is better. Bat houses should not be lit by bright lights. Click here for more information about Bat Houses
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