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“This Town Needs Me,†a familiar quote from fan-favorite Batman movies, reminds residents during BatWeek in Greater Victoria that we, indeed, need bats.
Habitat Acquisition Trust is hosting Educational Week October 24-31, calling it an opportunity to learn and appreciate tiny creatures. Bats are an important part of many ecosystems, as they feed on invasive insects, pollinate flowers, and spread seeds and nutrients.
“Bats in British Columbia help control agricultural and forest pests, as well as mosquitoes in our backyards, but now bats need our help,” said Mandy Kellner, BC Community Bat Program Coordinator. .
Conservation of bats in British Columbia has always been important, she said, as more than half of that province’s species are considered at risk.
Among other programs, surveillance for white-nose syndrome, a deadly fungus that kills bats, will continue through the winter, although many have migrated.
Such stewardship programs are undertaken in partnership with the Department of the Environment, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the Forest Enhancement Society of BC, the Habitat Stewardship Program and many local funders.
The public is urged to report dead bats or sightings of winter bat activity. To do this and to find out more about the Community Bat Program and BatWeek activities, visit bcbats.ca or dial 1-855-922-2287.
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Environment Fauna
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