Microbat Totem

Sketch by Richard Hassell

Type of Totem:

Corporate Totem

Target Species:

Microbats

Location:

26 Cairns Street, Brisbane, Australia

Story:

This Eco-Active Totem is designed to provide a home for Microbat species. The design is inspired by the peeling and layered bark of the eucalyptus species, the Eco-Active Totem is a purpose-driven microhabitat designed to support Australia’s and Southeast Asia’s native microbat species. Its architectural form mimics natural textures while incorporating ecological features that meet the specific needs of insectivorous bats in both rural and urban landscapes.

Images by @wildlife.in.sg and @wildlifewonders_au from left to right.

Microbats are small, insectivorous bats that use echolocation to hunt prey and navigate complex environments. They play a vital role in controlling insect populations — including mosquitoes and agricultural pests — and contribute significantly to the health of both urban and natural ecosystems.

In South-East Queensland, around 40 different microbat species have been recorded. Because of their small size and vulnerability to predators, microbats roost during the day in well-concealed locations. Depending on the species, they may shelter in tree hollows, cracks in dead trunks, beneath loose bark, or inside caves, old mines, or human-made structures. The Eco-Active Totem is designed to replicate these natural roosting conditions — offering an artificial but ecologically functional alternative where natural habitat may be lacking.

Singapore is also home to around 25 bat species, 19 of which are microbats. Among them, the Lesser Asiatic Yellow House Bat (Scotophilus kuhlii) is a common urban-adapted species that typically roosts communally in tree hollows or the fronds of large fan palms like Livistona. In urban environments, they often take refuge in attics or abandoned buildings. The totem provides a safer, purpose-built roost that helps reduce conflict while supporting healthy bat populations.

Key Habitat Features

• 20mm Entry Slots: Precisely engineered to allow access only to small microbat species, these narrow openings replicate natural crevices and offer a secure, enclosed roosting space.

• Layered Internal Chambers: The interior angled grooves provide secure grips and stable microclimates for resting colonies.

• Integrated Sun Shading: Sun Shade above the chambers regulate internal temperatures and keep the roost cool during hot daylight hours. This is crucial for bat health in tropical and subtropical climates.

• Predator Baffles: Strategically placed at the lower portion of the structure, these prevent predators like snakes, goannas, and feral cats from climbing up and disturbing the bats.

• Planter Base: The base features integrated planters, when filled with soil and native vegetation, help stabilize the totem while supporting local flora and insect life. The soil acts as a natural counterweight, anchoring the structure against wind and external forces.

Every Eco-Active Totem purchased supports real-world habitat conservation. A donation equal to the totem’s cost is contributed to Bush Heritage Australia, directly funding the protection of microbat habitats in Queensland.

Sponsors:

Delta Australia Holdings

Having delivered one of Brisbane’s most celebrated buildings, Riparian Plaza, Delta Australia Holdings is proud to lead the team behind 26 Cairns Street Kangaroo Point.

Team:

Design: WOHA: Richard Hassell, Evanne Kok , Chong Siew Way, Lin Bolt

Ecology: bioSEA: Anuj Jain

Technology and Fabrication: Systmz: Ng Joo Kok, Sean Liew

Integrated Greenery: GWS Living: Zac Toh, Sylvia Toh