BCI Heat Index
Bat House Color Recommendations
and Average Daily High Temperatures
Dark Areas: Less than 85° F—Black or dark shade of paint |
Medium Areas: 85°– 95° F—Dark or Medium shade of paint |
Light Areas: 95°– 100° F—Medium or light shade of paint |
Lightest Areas: 100° F or Greater—White or light shade of paint |
Years of research have shown that bat houses are far more successful at attracting bats if they are painted or stained. Painting helps provide the proper internal temperature for bats and also increases the life span of the bat house. Appropriate color depends upon geographic location and amount of sun exposure. At least six hours of direct daily sun are recommended for all 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 as much sunlight as possible. Adjust to darker colors for less sun. Use exterior-quality, water-based stain or latex paint, and choose a flat paint rather than gloss or semi-gloss paint for best solar absorbtion.
© Bat Conservation International, Inc. |
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