Two Environmental Factors That Influence Usage of Bat Houses in Managed Forests of Southwest Oregon

Abstract

Artificial bat roosting houses are often used in managed forests of southwestern Oregon. The goal of this study was to find the orientation and exposure of bat houses that maximizes bat occupancy rates. Occupancy rates were highest in bat boxes with southern and eastern aspects (11.6% and 9.7%, respectively). Significant differences in occupancy were found between houses facing south and those facing north and also between houses facing east and those facing north. Houses facing into clearcuts may be used more often that those facing into the forest.