As Halloween approaches, many of us are busy planning festive activities like carving pumpkins, decorating homes, and organising trick-or-treating. One iconic symbol that appears every year is the bat, gracing everything from decorations to costumes.
But beyond the spooky association, bats are truly remarkable creatures. They are the only mammals capable of sustained flight, with over 1,400 species worldwide – and in the UK, bats represent more than a quarter of all mammal species.
However, bat populations in the UK have seen a steep decline over the past century, largely due to habitat loss. This Halloween, Barratt David Wilson Homes is raising awareness about these misunderstood animals and the simple ways homeowners can help in their conservation.
Nicki Reid, Sales Director at Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter, said: “While bats are often linked to the spooky season, our commitment to supporting wildlife extends far beyond October. At many of our developments in Devon, including Hampton Mill, Okement Park, Berry Acres, Victoria Heights, and Fairfax Heath, we’ve installed more than 500 bat boxes. These provide crucial shelter for local bat populations and are part of our ongoing mission to enhance biodiversity at all our new communities.”
She added: “We believe our homeowners will appreciate living alongside these nocturnal neighbours, contributing to a thriving, wildlife-rich environment – something we know is important to many of our buyers.”
For those without pre-installed bat boxes, it’s easy to create a bat-friendly habitat at home. Whether buying or making your own, bat boxes or tubes should be placed on mature trees or buildings near hedgerows and tree lines. Aim for a spot at least four metres high, sheltered from strong winds and facing south to keep it warm. Avoid placing boxes near bright lights, which can attract predators.
By taking small steps like installing bat boxes, homeowners can help restore the UK’s bat population, ensuring these fascinating creatures remain a vibrant part of our ecosystem – all year round.
To learn more about bat boxes and how to put up your own, visit the Bat Conservation Trust’s website.
To learn more about Barratt Developments, visit www.barratthomes.co.uk.
You can join us on our social media pages, follow us on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Threads where you can keep up to date with whats going on in South Devon.
Got a news story, blog or press release that you’d like to share or want to advertise with us? Get in touch via email admin@wearesouthdevon.com
