Pests can be a real pain, especially if you’re an avid gardener or if you just like to enjoy your outdoor space without being bothered by unwelcome critters. Fortunately, there’s a solution that doesn’t involve harsh chemicals or expensive exterminators: bat houses. Bats are natural predators of insects, and by providing them with a comfortable home, you can encourage them to take up residence in your yard. Not only will they help control mosquito populations, but they’re also fascinating creatures to observe. If you’re interested in building your own bat house, you’re in luck. Here are 37 free DIY bat house plans to get you started.
- The Simple Bat Box
This design from Morning Chores is a great starting point for beginners. It’s simple and straightforward, and you can customize it by choosing different types of wood and finishes. The measurements are included, so all you have to do is cut the pieces and assemble.
- The Two-Chamber Bat House
This plan from the University of Hawaii at Manoa provides instructions for a two-chamber bat house that can be mounted on a pole or on a building. The materials needed and step-by-step assembly instructions are all included.
- The 20-Cubicle Bat House
If you’re serious about attracting bats to your yard, this 20-cubicle bat house from the Canadian Wildlife Federation is the way to go. It’s designed to house up to 3,000 bats, so you can be sure you’re doing your part to support local bat populations.
- The Double-Decker Bat House
If you’re short on space, this double-decker bat house from Mother Nature Network is a great option. It’s designed to be mounted on a pole, and the two levels provide plenty of roosting space for bats.
- The One-Board Bat House
This simple design from Better Homes & Gardens can be made with just one board. The instructions are easy to follow, and the finished bat house can be mounted on a tree or building.
- The Triple-Chamber Bat House
This plan from Bat Conservation International includes everything you need to build a triple-chamber bat house. The extra space provides room for up to 300 bats, and there are detailed instructions for mounting the house.
- The Gable-Roof Bat House
The gable roof on this bat house from Morning Chores adds a touch of style, and it’s designed to be mounted on a building or tree. The finished product is both functional and attractive.
- The Four-Chamber Bat House
This four-chamber bat house design from Bat Management Systems can hold up to 400 bats. The design includes ventilation slots and predator guards to keep the bats safe.
- The Painted Bat House
This bat house design from This Old House is made from cedar, and the simple paint job adds a pop of color. The finished product looks great mounted on a pole or building.
- The Teardrop-Shaped Bat House
This teardrop-shaped bat house from the National Wildlife Federation is both functional and stylish. It’s designed to be mounted on a pole, and the unique shape is sure to attract attention from both bats and humans.
- The Shutters Bat House
This bat house from Lowe’s has a unique design that incorporates wood shutters. It’s easy to assemble and looks great mounted on a building or tree.
- The Under-Shingle Bat House
This bat house from Mother Earth News is designed to be placed under the shingles of a building. It’s easy to assemble and provides a safe and cozy home for bats.
- The Barn-Style Bat House
If you’re looking for a bat house that’s a little more rustic, this barn-style design from Birdwatching Bliss is a great option. The materials list and step-by-step instructions are included.
- The Multi-Chamber Bat House
This bat house from Mother Earth News is designed to hold up to 300 bats, thanks to its multiple chambers. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, and the finished product looks great mounted on a building or tree.
- The Tower Bat House
This tower bat house from the University of Minnesota Extension is a great option if you’re short on horizontal space. It’s designed to be mounted on a pole and can house up to 50 bats.
- The Fancy Bat House
This fancy bat house from Better Homes & Gardens is sure to impress. The detailed design includes a plexiglass window for observing the bats.
- The Wall-Mounted Bat House
This bat house from This Old House is designed to be mounted directly to a wall. It’s easy to assemble and looks great with a natural wood finish.
- The Tapered Bat House
This tapered bat house design from Birds & Blooms can be cut from a single board. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, and the finished product can be mounted on a pole or tree.
- The Ultimate Bat House
This ultimate bat house design from the Canadian Wildlife Federation is sure to attract plenty of bats. The plan includes instructions for insulation and ventilation, as well as tips for mounting the house.
- The Double Chamber Bat House
This double chamber bat house design from Bat World Sanctuary can hold up to 50 bats. The detailed instructions include tips for painting and finishing the house.
- The Convertible Bat House
This convertible bat house from the National Wildlife Federation can be mounted on a building or pole. The removable roof provides easy access for cleaning and inspection.
- The Triple-Chamber Rocket Box
This triple-chamber rocket box design from Casey Trees is a great option if you’re looking for a more modern style. The detailed instructions include tips for painting the house to match your decor.
- The Evenly-Spaced Bat House
This evenly-spaced bat house from Lowe’s is designed to blend in with its surroundings. The easy-to-assemble design can hold up to 40 bats.
- The Open-Front Bat House
This open-front bat house from Best Nest is a great option if you’re short on materials or time. It’s designed to be mounted on a building or pole.
- The Slider Bat Box
This slider bat box design from the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a unique take on the traditional bat house. It’s designed to simulate the natural roosting spaces found in tree bark.
- The Multi-Chambered Bat House
This multi-chambered bat house from Lowe’s is a great option if you’re looking for a more traditional design. The easy-to-follow instructions include tips for painting and finishing the house.
- The Mini-Barn Bat House
This mini-barn bat house design from Little Things is both functional and adorable. It’s designed to be mounted on a pole or building.
- The Flat Bat House
This flat bat house from the National Wildlife Federation has a unique design that makes it easy to mount on a building or tree. The detailed instructions include tips for painting and finishing the house.
- The Single-Chamber Bat House
This single-chamber bat house design from Bat Conservation International is a great option if you’re short on materials or time. The finished product can be mounted on a building or tree.
- The Large Bat Box
If you’re serious about attracting bats to your property, this large bat box from Birds & Blooms is the way to go. The finished product can hold up to 600 bats!
- The Combination Bat House and Birdhouse
This combination bat house and birdhouse from Rural King is a great option if you’re short on space. The attached birdhouse provides a safe and cozy space for your feathered friends.
- The Sanctuary Bat House
This sanctuary bat house design from Bat Management Systems can hold up to 1,500 bats. The materials list and step-by-step instructions are included.
- The Bungalow Bat House
This bungalow bat house from Better Homes & Gardens is a great option if you’re looking for a unique shape. The finished product looks great mounted on a building or tree.
- The Four-Chamber Bat Nursery
This four-chamber bat nursery from Lowe’s is designed to house both mothers and their babies. The detailed instructions include tips for painting and finishing the house.
- The Big Brown Bat House
This big brown bat house from the University of Hawaii at Manoa is designed specifically for the big brown bat species. The detailed instructions include tips for choosing the right location for the house.
- The “Bat"chelor Pad Bat House
This bat’chelor pad bat house from Better Homes & Gardens is a great option if you’re looking for a fun and whimsical design. The easy-to-follow instructions include tips for painting and finishing the house.
- The Gambrel-Roof Bat House
This gambrel-roof bat house from Morning Chores is a great option if you’re looking for a more traditional design. The detailed instructions include tips for painting and finishing the house.
There you have it! 37 free DIY bat house plans to get you started on your pest-control journey. With so many different designs to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your yard. Remember, bats are important allies in the fight against mosquitoes and other pests, so by building a bat house, you’re not only helping yourself, but you’re also helping the environment. Happy building!
