Why Houston is perfect for backyard bat boxes

• They're key pollinators that also spread seeds and devour pesky insects like mosquitoes, wasps and flies. And without them, tequila would be harder to come by.

Driving the news: The Houston region is home to 11 bat species, including four that live in colonies, Houston bat expert DeAndra Ramsey tells Axios.

• One of those is the Mexican free-tailed bat, including 250,000 that live in close quarters under the Waugh Drive bridge at Buffalo Bayou.
• None of Houston's bat species is endangered. But giving wildlife space to thrive in urban settings is good environmental hygiene, Ramsey says.

What they're saying: "Human habitat is just constantly expanding and encroaching on what used to be wild spaces," Ramsey tells Axios. "Those little wild friends need somewhere to go."

Friction point: If you build it, they might come. Once you install the box, "the rest is up to the bats," Ramsey says.

• "They definitely have their own schedule and agenda," she says.
• Sometimes, it could take days for them to find the space. Other times it could be months or longer.

Yes, but: The effort can pay off, especially in cities. Without a proper roost, bats may end up in less-than-ideal spots like attics or lofts.

Pro tip: Ramsey says bat species that colonize in Houston like to find homes between the spring and fall, so now is the best time to do it.

• You can order Songbird Essentials bat houses for around $81.
• Neither the city of Houston nor state of Texas regulate bat boxes, representatives tell Axios. Some homeowner associations might have rules forbidding their construction.

Fun fact: Mexican free-tailed bats are "extreme flyers" that can soar from Houston to San Antonio in a night to hunt if needed, Ramsey says.

• How far bats travel to feed depends on things like weather and insect scarcity.

The bottom line: If you're ready to level up your outdoor game, consider adding a bat box to your space.