Natural insect control. Also very cool. We very occasionally see bats even in this old suburb (actually my husband, not me, since he's always the one who takes the dog out early).

Hannah, first let me say, I have planting zone envy. My husband wants to move to a warmer climate when we are older; I like it here just fine. But maybe, I can have two gardening zones like you do ;-)

Watching bats skitter about in the early morning with a good cup of coffee sounds like an enchanted way to start a day. I'm glad you are another person who enjoys them, rather than being scared of them.

It's extremely cool that you think it's cool! I love it when people remember that bats are our friends :) (bat rehab lady)

Kristy...you're a bat rehabber? Wow!
I have 2 'resident' bats that hang one on either side of my front porch...it's just part of my morning ritual to go out there and hose off the bat dung after they leave for the day...LOL
I think they're adorable.
I had thought about buying a bathouse, but thought it might be a waste of money.
They're evidentally happy living wherever they live. LOL

I like to turn on the pool light late at night...they come in droves for the bugs!

I have yet to see my first one of the year, but hopefully any night now......

I have a certain affection for bats too. :-)

Hannah - Thanks, often folks think I'm batty (sorry, I couldn't help myself). How sweet of you to do 'housekeeping' rather than evict them! They may move into a house if provided, just don't get a cedar one. They prefer weathered wood over new, so recycled wood is perfect for them. I've seen first hand how many bugs a bat can eat and it's a wonderful thought - I'm not a big mosquito fan :) Even though I have had them flying around in my house, I am always held spellbound whenever I see them flying 'free'.