Factors influencing roost selection by Australian tree cavity-roosting bats

Anthropogenic activities impact the roost resource of tree cavity-roosting bats. Aspects of artificial and maternity tree roost use were investigated. Bat box design elements were shown to be important to influence box microclimates and species-specific box use. Woodcement was identified as an alternative long-lasting box material. Concerns are raised about the effectiveness of bat boxes to offset tree hollows. Creation of cavities into trees was shown to be an alternative artificial cavity provision technique. Research within timber production forest indicated that a ‘retention forestry’ approach is suitable to ensure habitat complexity and continuity to accommodate differences in maternity roost requirements among species.