Why? Studies show a single bat may eat as many as 5,000 mosquitoes in one night.

Some tips:

1. Your bat house should be situated to receive maximum solar radiation, especially in the morning. It should face east to absorb the morning sun yet be shaded from the blazing heat of the afternoon.

2. Mount the house at least 10 feet high under the eaves of a house or garage or in a tree sheltered from the elements.

3. If your bat house is not occupied by the second year, try a different location, or place more than one house initially.

4. If you live near a pond, lake or river, your chances of success are increased because bats need a source of water for drinking purposes. However, don’t be discouraged if the conditions are not perfect.