I hesitate to write this but in light of all the request I must
reply. I am sorry for causing people to stray from the always welcomed CP
discussions to a strange unexpected topic of interest. I am glad to know
people are reading my letters. Anyway, Bat boxes are available from many
different retail outlets. However, these bat boxes are unproven. That is,
there is no valid research that can say they actually work or don't. BCI
(Bat Conservation International) is one organization that is currently
offering the only boxes that I know of that are used in current research.
They have been studying the occupation rates for over two years. Their
boxes seem to work in some areas of the U.S. Mainly in the Mid-west and
Northeast. BCI has books, VHS, boxes, box kits, you name it. I am not
promoting joining BCI, only if you want. It is a valid conservation
society though. Bats are in trouble. All CP enthusiasts ought to
appreciate that. We should understand the problems with eradication, and
uncontrolled collecting. Bats just like CP's are insectivorous. They eat
their weight in insects per night. We southern folks really appreciate
this fact. If you ever visit this area of the southeast you WILL
understand. So, bats are important biologically, and economically. Boxes
should be placed where they recieve morning sunlight. Placement near water
is also to ones advantage. Place boxes at least 12 to 15 feet from ground
on a pole with no obstructions(e.g. utility poles). Try putting roofing
paper on the tops of boxes and maybe drill several holes at the tops for
venting heat. These are some of the things that seem to be important in
attracting bats. Good Luck. I have placed the BCI address at the bottom
of this message.
Now, a question.
Just what is the best way of growing N. gracilis? Any ideas on
medium, humidity, etc...?
Are there anystates that have very strict laws regarding the destruction
of, and the collection of CP (besides Dionea in N.C.)?
BCI address:
Bat Conservation International
P.O. Box 162603
Austin, TX 78716-2603
(512) 327-9721
My address:
Ronnie Spears
465 S. College St.
Statesboro, GA 30458
(912) 764-9412
email: gsi0816@gsaix2.cc.gasou.edu