Helping Bats Take Flight: Cornwall Homeowners Encouraged to Aid Bat Conservation this Halloween

As Halloween approaches, many are preparing for the festivities by carving pumpkins and decorating their homes. An iconic symbol of the season, bats can be seen on decorations, costumes, and more. But beyond their spooky association, these nocturnal creatures play an essential role in our ecosystem.

In the UK, bats make up more than a quarter of all mammal species, with over 1,400 species found worldwide. Despite their importance, bat populations have been in decline over the past century, largely due to habitat loss. To help combat this, Barratt David Wilson Homes is raising awareness about how homeowners in Cornwall can assist in bat conservation.

500 Bat Boxes Installed in Cornwall

Nicki Reid, Sales Director at Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter, shared the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting wildlife: “While bats are often linked to the spooky season, our commitment to supporting wildlife extends far beyond October. At our developments in Cornwall, including Treledan and Pen Bethan, we will be installing 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.”

Nicki also emphasised the benefits to homeowners: “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.”

How Homeowners Can Help

For those without pre-installed bat boxes, creating a bat-friendly habitat is simple. Whether buying or making your own, bat boxes or tubes should be placed on mature trees or buildings near hedgerows and tree lines. It’s recommended to position them at least four metres high, sheltered from strong winds and facing south to keep them warm. Avoid placing them near bright lights, which can attract predators.

By taking these small steps, homeowners can play a part in restoring the UK’s bat population, ensuring these fascinating creatures remain a vibrant part of our ecosystem year-round.

More Than Homes

Barratt David Wilson Homes continues to build much-needed properties in Cornwall, with developments at Treledan in Saltash and the upcoming Pen Bethan in Falmouth. The company also offers a range of schemes to support buyers, such as the Key Worker Deposit Contribution Scheme and the Part Exchange Guarantee.

To learn more about how you can help bats, visit the Bat Conservation Trust’s website.

Photo: A Barratt David Wilson Homes bat box