06/02/2026
For this months June Spotlight, we’re focusing on a pollinator that not always comes to mind…
🦇🦇BATS!!!
Creating a bat-friendly Florida garden is all about providing food, water, shelter, and a pesticide-free environment. While Florida’s bats are primarily insect-eaters, a well-designed native landscape can attract the insects they feed on and provide habitat for both bats and other wildlife.
🦇 Start with Native Plants
Plant a variety of Florida natives that support moths, beetles, and other nighttime insects.
Good choices include:
* Firebush (Hamelia patens)
* American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
* Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
* Walter’s Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum)
* Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)
* Native oaks and other canopy trees
These plants support caterpillars, moths, beetles, and other insects that become food for bats.
💧 Provide Water
Bats need water and often drink while flying.
Consider:
* A small pond
* A wildlife-friendly water garden
* A birdbath with a gentle bubbler
Moving water is especially attractive because bats can locate it more easily.
🌳 Preserve Roosting Habitat
Many Florida bats use:
* Mature trees
* Dead snags (when safe)
* Palm fronds
* Tree cavities
Leaving some natural structure in your landscape can make a big difference.
🏠 Install a Bat House
For best results:
* Mount 12–20 feet high
* Place in full sun
* Face south or southeast
* Keep away from bright nighttime lights
* Install near a water source if possible
Florida’s warm climate is ideal for bat houses when properly sited.
🚫 Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides reduce the insect populations bats depend on and can expose wildlife to harmful chemicals.
Instead:
* Use integrated pest management practices
* Accept a little insect activity as part of a healthy ecosystem
* Encourage natural predators
🌙 Reduce Light Pollution
Many bat species prefer darker areas.
Try:
* Shielded outdoor lights
* Motion-sensor lighting
* Warm-colored bulbs
* Turning off unnecessary lights at night
🦇🌿✨