4 Bat Species that Call the Okanagan Region Home

When most people think of the Okanagan Valley, they picture sprawling vineyards, crystal-clear lakes, and endless summer sunshine. But as the sun dips behind the mountains, another side of the Okanagan comes alive: its thriving bat population. These fascinating creatures play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, keeping insect populations under control, and contributing to the health of our local environment. The Okanagan region is Canadas most diverse bat population, with over 15 species residing here. See the full list in this article by BC Bats Organization.

At Kelowna Woodcraft, we’re proud to support local wildlife through our handmade cedar bat boxes, crafted right here in British Columbia from sustainably sourced Western Red Cedar. By providing safe roosting habitats, we not only protect these important species but also strengthen the bond between craftsmanship, sustainability, and nature.

Meet the Okanagan’s Bat Residents

1. Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus)

One of the most common bat species across Canada, the Little Brown Myotis is especially abundant in the Okanagan. They are small, agile insect hunters, capable of consuming up to 1,000 mosquitoes in a single night. Unfortunately, this species has faced steep population declines due to white-nose syndrome, making conservation efforts and proper bat box design more important than ever. Read more about this devastating infection here

2. Yuma Bat (Myotis yumanensis)

Often spotted near water, the Yuma Bat thrives in riparian habitats throughout the Okanagan Valley. With a wingspan of about 9 inches, these bats specialize in feeding on aquatic insects, helping to keep lake and river ecosystems in balance.  They prefer roosting under bridges and buildings in towns and cities. Installing a bat box near water sources can provide critical roosting space for this species. Read more about them here

3. Pallid Bat (Antrozous pallidus)

The Pallid Bat is one of the most unique species in our region. Unlike other bats that primarily eat insects on the wing, Pallid Bats are known to forage on the ground, feeding on beetles, grasshoppers, and even scorpions. They are also known for their striking pale coloration, making them a distinctive resident of the Okanagan’s desert-like habitats. The southern Okanagan is the only region of Canada containing the Pallid bat. They are a species of concern due to habitat loss and loss of grasslands. Read more about them here from Wikipedia. 

4. Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)

True to its name, the Big Brown Bat is larger than most of its local cousins and is highly adaptable. They often roost in trees, caves, and even buildings, making them a familiar presence in both rural and urban parts of the Okanagan. These bats are resilient and excellent at controlling agricultural pests, providing natural benefits to local farms and gardens. Learn more about the big brown bat here.

Why Bat Conservation Matters

Bats are often misunderstood, but they are ecological powerhouses. By reducing insect populations, they protect crops, minimize the need for chemical pesticides, and make our summer evenings more enjoyable. Supporting bat populations through proper roosting habitats is one of the simplest and most impactful ways homeowners can contribute to local conservation.

That’s why we design our cedar bat boxes with functionality, durability, and wildlife safety in mind. Using Western Red Cedar sourced locally in British Columbia, each bat box reflects over 40 years of craftsmanship and a commitment to sustainability. Just like our planter boxes and bird feeders, our bat boxes combine practical function with timeless, luxury design.

The Value of Local Craftsmanship

At Kelowna Woodcraft, our mission goes beyond building products. We aim to revitalize Canadian craftsmanship while supporting our community and the environment. Every bat box, bird feeder, and planter we produce is made by hand in our Kelowna workshop, using cedar that’s harvested and milled locally. By choosing locally made, high-quality products, you’re not just investing in home décor, you’re investing in sustainability, heritage, and pride of ownership.

If you’d like to learn more about bats in the Okanagan, visit the BC Community Bat Program, which provides excellent resources for homeowners and conservationists alike. Together, we can help these incredible animals thrive.