Bats are for Mosquito Season!

Why Every Gardener-Even on a Balcony-Should Support Native Bay Area Bats

When you think of bats, you might picture spooky Halloween scenes or dark caves. But did you know that brown bats are some of the Bay Area’s most important- and misunderstood- wildlife neighbors? Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a cozy apartment balcony, you can help these amazing creatures thrive, and your garden will thank you for it!

The Secret Superheroes of the Night

Brown bats, like the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) and the big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), are true ecosystem superheroes. Here’s why:

Natural Pest Control: Each night, a single bat can devour hundreds of mosquitoes, moths, beetles, and other insects. That means fewer pests nibbling your plants and biting you!

Eco-Friendly Allies: By keeping insect populations in check, bats reduce the need for chemical pesticides, making your garden healthier for pollinators, pets, and people.

Biodiversity Boosters: Bats help maintain the balance of local ecosystems, supporting everything from native plants to birds and other wildlife.

But I Only Have a Balcony-Can I Really Help?

Absolutely! You don’t need a big yard to make a difference. Even small urban spaces can become bat-friendly havens. Here’s how:

1. Grow Night-Blooming and Native Plants

Bats love to eat insects, and many insects are attracted to night-blooming or fragrant flowers. Try growing these in pots or window boxes:

• Evening primrose
• Nicotiana (flowering tobacco)
• Native sages (Salvia sp.)
• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

These plants attract beneficial insects and add beauty and fragrance to your balcony.

2. Offer Water

Bats need to drink, too! Place a shallow dish of water I or a waterfeature in your garden or balcony (change it daily to prevent mosquitoes). Even a small water source can help thirsty bats and other wildlife.

3. Install a Bat House

If your balcony gets a few hours of sun and you have permission, consider mounting a small bat house on a wall or railing. Place it at least 10 feet up, facing east or southeast. It may take time, but bats might move in!  We have some great ones in our Wildlife Collection.

4. Go Pesticide-Free

Skip the bug sprays and let bats (and other natural predators) do the work. Fewer chemicals mean more healthy insects for bats to eat-and a safer space for you.

5. Reduce Light Pollution

Bright lights can confuse and deter bats. Use warm-colored, low-intensity lights outdoors, or turn them off when not needed.

The Ripple Effect: Small Actions, Big Impact

Supporting bats isn’t just about helping one species-it’s about creating a healthier, more balanced urban ecosystem. When bats thrive, so do our gardens, pollinators, and communities.

Ready to be a Bat Champion?

Whether you’re tending a lush backyard or a single balcony planter, you can make a difference. By welcoming bats, you’ll enjoy natural pest control, healthier plants, and the satisfaction of helping one of the Bay Area’s most valuable-and underappreciated-wildlife allies.

So next time you see a bat flutter by at dusk, give it a silent cheer. With your help, the Bay Area’s bats can keep working their nighttime magic-for everyone.

Want to learn more?
Check out resources from Bat Conservation International and local Bay Area wildlife groups for more tips on supporting bats in urban spaces!