How to Attract UK Bats to Your Garden
Bats are essential for maintaining a healthy bio-network, particularly in the UK, where 18 species of bats can be found (17 of which are known to be breeding here). They might have developed a chilling reputation thanks to their portrayal in film and literature but these nocturnal creatures are, in fact, very adorable; but more importantly, they’re a key member of our local ecosystems. Vitally, they prey on insects, helping to naturally control pest populations. This means that if you spot bats in your garden, it’s an indicator of a healthy, biodiverse and insect-rich environment.
For gardeners and wildlife lovers, understanding the plants that attract bats and provide them shelter can encourage a bat-friendly environment. More on that later! But first, let’s look at which bats to spot in the UK, and when and where you can see them.
Which bat species exist in the UK?
The UK is home to a variety of bat species, including the common pipistrelle, the brown long-eared bat, and the noctule (find out more about our species here). Bats are more prevalent in rural areas, woodlands and near bodies of water (including garden ponds), though urban areas are becoming increasingly important habitats.
In fact, bats frequently roost in houses in the UK. Many species of British bats, including the common pipistrelle and brown long-eared bat, often use buildings as roosting sites. They can be found in loft spaces, roof voids, behind fascia boards or in wall cavities. Bats use these spaces for various activities, such as resting, hibernating or raising their young.
Bats in homes are generally harmless and do not cause structural damage. However, because bats are protected by law in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is illegal to disturb or harm them or to block or destroy their roosts without proper guidance. If bats are found roosting in your home, it's recommended to seek advice from conservation groups like the Bat Conservation Trust before taking any action.
Bats typically prefer buildings that offer safe, dark, and quiet areas with stable temperatures, which mimic their natural roosting conditions in trees or caves. Some older houses or barns are especially popular due to their many entry points and undisturbed spaces.
When and where to see bats
Bats are most likely to be spotted in the UK from April to October, particularly at dusk and dawn, when they come out to feed on flying insects like moths, flies and mosquitoes. Near rivers, lakes and woodlands, where insects thrive, you're more likely to witness bats swooping through the air in search of their next meal.
Plants that attract bats
While bats in the UK don’t eat plants or their fruit (unlike tropical bats), they are drawn to areas where their insect prey thrives. Certain plants attract night-flying insects, which in turn, attract bats. Here are some excellent plant choices for creating a bat-friendly garden:- Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis): Its sweet-smelling flowers open at night, attracting moths and other insects that bats feed on.
- Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum): Known for its strong scent, especially at dusk, honeysuckle is a magnet for insects, making it a favourite for bats as well.
- Jasmine (Jasminum officinale): Some varieties of this climbing plant produce a night-time fragrance that attracts a host of insects.
- Lavender (Lavandula): Though better known for attracting bees, lavender’s abundant insect visitors can also appeal to bats, especially in the evening.
- Wild Garlic (Allium ursinum): The flowers of wild garlic attract a variety of insects, providing a reliable food source for bats during its bloom in spring.
The best trees and shrubs to provide shelter for bats
Bats need sheltered spaces for roosting and raising their young. Here are some trees and shrubs that provide excellent bat habitats:
Oak (Quercus robur): This majestic tree supports a large variety of insects, making it a prime hunting ground for bats. Its crevices and hollow spaces also offer roosting opportunities.
Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna): A popular hedgerow plant, hawthorn attracts many insects, and its dense branches create sheltered spots for slow-flying bats to hide.
Willow (Salix alba): Willows thrive near water, where bats hunt for insects. Their rough bark and hollowed trunks provide excellent shelter.
Bat-friendly products for your garden
In addition to planting the right flora, providing artificial roosts can make your garden even more bat-friendly. Here are three to consider:
This durable bat box provides an ideal roosting space for small colonies of bats. Made from sustainable FSC timber and recycled plastic, it’s designed with three vertical chambers that offer a range of size options for different species. Easy to install on trees or buildings, the Vincent Pro Bat Box can be a permanent, safe home for bats seeking shelter.
The Conservation Bat Box is perfect for attracting bats to conservation-focused gardens. Made with untreated FSC timber, this box doesn’t have any nasty chemical scents (which can put bats off nesting) and can host multiple bat species. With two vertical chambers and ladder-style grooves to help bats grip, it’s an effective option for encouraging these amazing animals to settle in your garden.
Simon King Bat Rack Hanging Roost
Unlike conventional bat boxes, the Simon King Bat Rack is a roost designed to be installed in roof spaces. This simple-yet-effective roost offers bats a safe resting spot in roof spaces where they can come and go uninterrupted. Its open design, created with FSC timber, ensures easy access for multiple species of bats.
Why support bats in your garden?
Providing safe habitats for bats in your garden helps balance local ecosystems and brings you the added joy of watching these fascinating creatures. If you’re really keen on supporting local bat populations, planting insect-attracting plants and offering secure roosting options are best practices. What’s more, you’ll enjoy a natural form of pest control in return!