The 13 native bat species of Florida are vital components of the local ecosystem, providing natural pest control services that benefit the environment and agriculture. These flying mammals are entirely insectivorous, consuming vast quantities of night-flying insects, including mosquitoes, moths, and beetles. A single bat can eat thousands of bugs in one evening, which helps reduce the population of common pests that can spread disease. Creating a welcoming environment involves specific habitat modifications and providing suitable roosting structures adapted to the Florida climate.
Preparing the Landscape for Bat Habitats
Attracting bats begins with ensuring a reliable food and water supply in the surrounding landscape. Since Florida bats are insectivores, the primary goal is to foster a thriving population of night-flying insects. Drastically reducing or eliminating the use of pesticides is the first step, as these chemicals remove the bats’ food source and can be directly harmful.
Planting night-blooming and fragrant flora is an effective way to attract the moths and other insects bats prefer to eat. Species like evening primrose, moonflower, native asters, and goldenrod are excellent choices because their fragrances draw nocturnal insects. These plants provide a food base for the bats’ prey and support the broader ecosystem.
A nearby water source is also important, as bats must drink shortly after emerging from their roosts. Bats typically scoop water while flying low over the surface, so a pond, small fountain, or open body of water within a quarter-mile of the bat house is beneficial. Leaving dead trees, known as snags, when they do not pose a hazard, offers natural roosting nooks.
Constructing and Positioning Bat Houses
The primary means of attracting colonial bat species is by installing a properly designed and strategically placed bat house. Florida’s high humidity and temperatures require specific design considerations to maintain internal warmth without overheating the colony. Bat houses should be constructed with multiple chambers, spaced three-quarters to seven-eighths of an inch apart, and feature a rough interior surface for bats to grip easily.
The interior temperature of the house should be maintained between 80°F and 100°F, which is necessary for successfully raising young (pups). To achieve this, the exterior color is adjusted based on the region and sun exposure. In sunnier South Florida, a lighter color like light brown or gray is recommended to prevent overheating. North Florida houses may benefit from a darker brown or gray to absorb more heat.
Placement is the most important factor for occupancy, requiring both height and sun exposure. The bat house should be mounted on a freestanding pole or the side of a building, not on a tree, at a height of 12 to 20 feet above the ground. The structure should face southeast or south to maximize sun exposure, aiming for at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Placement should also be far from bright lights and human activity, ideally with a 20-foot clearance from nearby obstacles like branches or wires.
Identifying Common Florida Bat Species and Safety Protocols
Homeowners are most likely to attract colonial species that naturally roost in man-made structures and crevices. The Brazilian free-tailed bat is the most common species to occupy bat houses statewide, often forming colonies of hundreds or thousands. Other species that may take up residence include the Southeastern bat and the Evening bat, both common throughout the state.
All native Florida bats are protected under state law, making it illegal to harm or kill them. Specific rules govern their exclusion from buildings during the maternity season between April 15 and August 15. The most important safety protocol is never to handle a bat with bare hands, even if it appears injured or grounded. Like any wild mammal, bats can carry the rabies virus, although the incidence is typically low.
If a bat is found inside the living area of a home, the best practice is to contain it in one room and open a window or exterior door to allow it to exit. A bat found grounded during the day is likely ill and should be left alone, and a local wildlife professional should be contacted for assistance. Maintaining a safe distance protects both people and the bats.