What to Know about Ordering Bat Houses

Bat Conservation International has been conducting bat house research with the help of volunteer Research Associates since 1992. We know what works and what doesn’t. Each model in our catalog is handmade and has passed our rigorous certification process. We feel they are some of the best houses on the market today.

Bat houses are far more successful at attracting bats if they are painted or stained. This helps maintain proper temperatures for bats and also increases the life span of the bat house. The appropriate shade of color depends upon the geographic location and the amount of sun exposure the bat house receives (see below). At least six hours of direct daily sun are recommended for bat houses where daily high temperatures in July average less than 100°F. Houses where high temperatures in July average 80°F or less should receive at least 10 hours of sun. Full, all-day sun is often successful in all but the hottest climates. Use darker colors for less sun.

Below, we have provided a map of recommended bat house colors. Due to individual species' preferences, ambient temperature, amount of sun exposure and other variables, more than one shade of color may be suitable for a given location. To the extent feasible, multiple houses providing different options should be installed.

Some of the models that BCI offers are pre-painted or stained, with choices of three or four colors. Other models are unfinished and require two to three coats of exterior-grade, water-based paint or stain. BCI's plastic-stucco houses (BH-7 and BH-8) are shipped fully painted in a shade of color (light, medium, or dark) suited for your region of the country. When ordering plastic-stucco houses, please specify where the bat house will be installed (nearest town/city and state), and a color will be selected for you.

Remember to mount your bat house at least 12 feet high on a wooden or masonry structure or on a pole, free from obstacles such as tree branches or power lines. BCI recommends that single-chamber houses be mounted on buildings. Please note: bat houses must be shipped to a physical address. No P.O. boxes, please

Areas	Wooden Houses	Plastic/Stucco Houses
1) Dark areas: less than 85°F	black	dark color
2) Medium areas: 85 to 95°F	dark or medium color	medium color
3) Light areas: 95 to 100°F	medium color	light color
4) Lightest areas: 100°F or greater	white or light color	light color