Safeguarding New England Bats: The Benefits—and Realities—of Bat Houses

As guardians of the night sky, bats play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. However, in New England, these invaluable creatures face significant threats, including habitat loss and the devastating effects of white-nose syndrome. Conservation efforts are more important than ever—but they must be grounded in practical, region-specific knowledge.

One commonly suggested conservation method is the installation of bat houses. While this approach can offer benefits, it’s important to understand the realities of bat house success in New England’s unique climate. In this guide, we explore the potential advantages of bat houses, the challenges they face in our region, and how homeowners can support bats in a responsible and effective way.

Understanding the Reality of Bat House Effectiveness

Bat houses can serve as alternative roosting sites for displaced bats—but in New England, their effectiveness is limited. Studies and real-world experience show that bat houses in our region only work about 35% of the time. The primary reason? Bats are extremely temperamental creatures, and our cooler, less humid climate often fails to meet their roosting preferences.

In fact, from spring through early fall, many homeowners across New England find themselves dealing with bats in attics—an issue that keeps professionals like Shawn, Owner of New England Wildlife Control, busy with exclusion work from now until October.

That doesn’t mean bat houses aren’t worth discussing. It simply means that homeowners need to do their homework before jumping in.

Important Considerations Before Installing a Bat House

While we’re not knocking the idea of a bat house, we do urge caution and proper planning. Here are some important reminders for anyone considering this route:

• Avoid DIY or uncertified products: Poorly built bat houses can be dangerous to bats and cause more harm than good.
• Seek certified options: Only install bat houses that are certified by reputable organizations like Bat Conservation International (BCI).
• Understand your property: Not every backyard is suitable. Proper sun exposure, height, and proximity to water all matter.
• Be realistic: Even with the perfect setup, success is not guaranteed in New England.

💡 Expert tip: We often refer interested homeowners to P&S Country Crafts, a small NH-based business run by a knowledgeable older couple. Their BCI-certified bat houses are thoughtfully built, and their website offers excellent information on whether your property is right for bats.
Visit P&S Country Crafts – Bat Houses, Bird Houses and More

The Broader Role of Bat Conservation

While bat houses can help in limited cases, other conservation actions are often more impactful for New England residents:

Support Local Ecosystems

• Preserve native plants to support insect populations—bats’ primary food source.
• Limit pesticide use, which harms both bats and their prey.
• Add water features like ponds or birdbaths to attract insects and support biodiversity.

Spread Awareness About White-Nose Syndrome

This deadly fungus has decimated bat populations across the Northeast. While bat houses aren’t a cure, they may offer safer alternatives to infected caves in some instances. Raising awareness and supporting research are equally critical.

Conclusion: Thoughtful Conservation Matters

Bats are essential to healthy ecosystems—controlling pests, pollinating plants, and contributing to biodiversity. While bat houses can play a role in supporting local bat populations, especially when designed and installed correctly, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution for New England.

Before installing a bat house, consult reputable sources, seek certified products, and be prepared for modest results. If you suspect bats are roosting in your home, contact a licensed professional like New England Wildlife Control for safe and humane exclusion.

Together, we can support New England’s bats in practical, informed, and meaningful ways.