Bats and Bat boxes

The two wooden bat boxes in the pictures were made by Eric Flemming, one of our volunteers at Bannockburn House, and were made using a design found on the Internet. These were made from untreated Larch which was sourced from a local timber yard. Cuts were made on the surface from the entry point all the way to the inner tops to aid bats when climbing.

The other box is made from cement and is of German manufacture, gifted to us by Direct Ecology Ltd, based in Dunblane.

Direct Ecology suggested that the boxes be removed from the south-facing wall of the Victorian extension and relocated to trees around the rear lawn. This was done on 16th April by one of their qualified staff after first checking that there were no bats resident in the boxes, which was the case.

It’s hoped that on their return, which should be anytime soon, the bats will locate the boxes and take up residency instead of entering the house!

The representative from Direct Ecology was full of praise for our efforts in helping bats to thrive, as they are an endangered species.

It was mentioned that making more boxes would be beneficial, and he would be happy to assist.

Photos and text are by Eric

Eric is a member of the repair and maintenance team.