Vermont Bat Houses Support Endangered Species

Homeowners can help local bat populations by installing houses and performing maintenance during the winter.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Wildlife

Vermont Bat Houses Support Endangered Species

Live Poll

Should homeowners actively manage their properties to help conserve local wildlife species?

As Bat Week begins on October 24, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is highlighting the importance of state-led conservation for the nine native bat species found in the region. Since 2014, the state has distributed 158 free bat houses to support these populations, with more than 1,700 endangered bats observed using the structures.

Why it matters

Protecting these bats is critical because they provide essential ecological services by consuming large amounts of forest and agricultural insects. With several local bat species currently classified as threatened or endangered, providing safe alternative roosting habitats is a key part of regional conservation efforts.

Vermont has distributed 158 free bat houses since the program began in 2014, with over half of these units now occupied. More than 1,700 endangered bats have been counted exiting these alternative roosting structures.

The players

Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department

The state agency responsible for managing natural resources and leading conservation initiatives for endangered species.

The details

To effectively support bats, homeowners should install two houses with varying degrees of sun exposure, which helps accommodate young bats. For those already hosting bats, the department recommends performing maintenance or removing wasp nests during late fall or winter when the animals have migrated. Bat houses should be mounted on poles or buildings rather than trees to provide better protection.

The state bat house program began in 2014.
Bats migrate between summer and winter roosts during the fall and spring.
Bat Week occurs annually from October 24 through October 31.
Property owners should clean and maintain bat houses in late fall or winter.

The Home Front

This effort aligns with broader state wildlife conservation mandates aimed at bolstering threatened and endangered animal populations. It reflects a growing shift toward integrating residential property management with regional ecological recovery goals.

If you are interested in supporting local bat populations, consider installing two houses in different sun-exposed locations on your property. Remember to avoid mounting them on trees and schedule any necessary maintenance for your existing houses during the late fall or winter months.

The takeaway

Supporting bat health is a practical way to manage insect populations on your property while aiding endangered species recovery. If you already have a bat house, plan to inspect it for maintenance needs during the winter when it is vacant.