How to transform your garden into a nocturnal wonderland for bats

As the sun sets and the stars begin their nightly dance, a different kind of magic unfolds in our gardens. While most creatures are bedding down for the night, one of nature’s most mysterious and beneficial allies takes to the skies – the bat. With their delicate wings and quiet flutters, bats bring more to your garden than just an air of mystery. They're natural pest controllers, pollinators and contributors to a healthy ecosystem. Sean McMenemy, passionate nature expert and founder of Ark Wildlife, shares some advice on how you can make your garden a haven for these nocturnal marvels. 

Create a feast fit for bats 

“Bats are insectivores, so they’ll happily patrol your garden if the dining is good! The secret? Night-scented flowers. These blooms release their fragrance at dusk, releasing inviting fragrances that lure in moths and other night-flying insects – prime prey for hungry bats. Some flowers, like honeysuckle and white jasmine put on a show all day long with their lovely delicate flowers, but it’s their sweet, evening scent that bats adore. For even more nocturnal charm, consider planting evening primrose, tobacco plant, petunias and sweet rocket. Opting for white or pale blue blossom is particularly wise, as these colours stand out in the dim light, encouraging insects to gather and providing bats with an easy-to-spot buffet. 

To really up the ante, introduce established trees and shrubs to your garden. These plants offer bugs the perfect spot to lay eggs and reproduce, turning your garden into an insect haven, and an even more inviting place for these beneficial creatures.” 

Add a splash of water 

“Like all creatures, bats need water, and a garden with a steady water source quickly turns into their favourite retreat. While bats get most of their hydration through their diet, adding a pond or water feature into your garden is an excellent way to lure these nocturnal neighbours and provide them with an extra boost of hydration. Not only does it offer bats a refreshing drink, but is also attracts insects, which become a delightful bonus meal for bats. For best results, make sure the pond is wide enough to give bats an unimpeded runway as they swoop in for a drink. 

Imagine a small pond or simple water feature enhancing your garden. The gentle sound of trickling water is pleasant for humans, but for bats it signals a reliable source of hydration and food. Insects are naturally attracted to water so a pond or birdbath will become a hotspot for mosquitoes and other bugs that bats enjoy eating. If space is limited, a shallow dish placed in an accessible spot will do the trick. Just keep it clean and fresh to keep your winged guests coming back for more. 

By adding a splash of water to your garden, you not only cater to your bat visitors but also enrich your gardens biodiversity. The presence of water creates a lively habitat, welcoming a host of creatures, including your charming bat friends.” 

Craft a cosy nook 

“To truly enchant your garden for bats, you’ll want to provide them with a cosy roosting spot. A well-crafted bat box can become their ideal daytime retreat, offering warmth and safety. Opt for a tall, narrow design painted in dark colours to soak up the sun’s rays and place it at least 10 ft above the ground. Bats adore their homes to be snug and secure, so place the house in a sunny spot on a tree trunk or the side of a building, where they can avoid pesky predators, including crafty cats! Although bats aren’t on the menu for cats, they delight in batting them around. 

But don’t stop there! Adding a touch of natural wilderness to your garden can work wonders. Dead trees, hollow logs and lush, dense foliage make for fantastic roosting spots. Embrace a bit of untamed charm – don't rush to remove every piece of dead wood or trim back every branch. These elements create a richer, bat-friendly environment.” 

For more expert advice from Sean, and to browse Ark Wildlife’s range of solutions for wildlife, visit www.arkwildlife.co.uk  

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Editors notes

Ark Wildlife is a UK-based company specialising in wildlife-friendly products and solutions. They are known for providing a wide range of products designed to support and encourage wildlife in gardens and outdoor spaces, while inspiring its customers to make one small, simple step to help nature thrive.

Ark Wildlife offers a wide array of bird feeders, bird foods, and bird care accessories to attract and nourish birds such as robins, blue tits, sparrows, and other garden birds. They also provide habitats for hedgehogs, bats, and insects, aiming to create a balanced and biodiverse ecosystem in domestic environments.

The business was founded by wildlife enthusiast Sean McMenemy, an expert with an unparalleled understanding of garden wildlife which dates back to a passion developed during his childhood. He is regarded as a leading authority on garden wildlife and has personally driven more innovation, quality and convenience to the bird food and wildlife market than anyone else.