We are pleased to announce the completion of West Hampton’s Bat House Project, made possible through funding from the Hillsborough County Neighborhood Mini-Grant Program.
The project began with the identification and evaluation of locations throughout the community. Volunteers verified each proposed site to ensure that it met the desired criteria for bat house placement. Materials were then purchased, including three-chamber bat houses, pole-mounting systems, ground anchors, concrete, and recognition placards for each location.
Installation was completed through three volunteer work sessions. During the first session, mounting brackets were attached to the bat houses. Volunteers then prepared the installation sites by digging holes and setting the pole anchors in concrete. At the final session, the recognition placards were attached, the bat houses were mounted to their poles, and the completed assemblies were installed at the selected locations.
In addition to providing suitable habitat for local bat populations, the project supports West Hampton’s environmentally responsible approach to mosquito and flying-insect control. Bats are highly effective natural insect predators, and properly placed and maintained bat houses can encourage their presence within the community.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners for providing the grant funding that made this project possible. Their continued support of the Neighborhood Mini-Grant Program enables communities such as West Hampton to complete meaningful projects that improve neighborhoods, encourage volunteer participation, and promote environmental stewardship.
We also thank volunteer grant writer Henry Gillen, the West Hampton Board of Directors, and all the residents and volunteers who contributed their time and effort to planning, preparing, and installing the bat houses. With installation now complete, the community will provide periodic inspection and maintenance to help keep the bat houses secure and functional for years to come.