The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project is asking community members to help bats by participating in the annual BC Bat Count.
“This is the perfect opportunity for community members who love wildlife to help collect vital scientific information,” says Wildlife Project leader Michelle Evelyn. “No special skills are needed, kids can be involved, and you can relax in a deck chair while counting.”
With the recent detection of white nose syndrome near Seattle, this year’s count is more important than ever, Evelyn said. “This devastating fungal disease has already killed more than six million bats in eastern North America in the past decade. This summer may be our last year to understand local bat communities before we begin to see widespread bat population declines.”
Residents who know of a bat colony occupying a roof, attic, barn, shed, tree or bat house are encouraged to contact the Wildlife Project. If desired, biologists can assist with the count and visit your property to assess your bat situation, identify the bat species, and provide you with information on safe evictions and bat houses.
To learn more about how to participate in the bat count, see www.coastwildlife.ca or www.facebook.com/coastwildlife or email [email protected] or call 604-989-1007.
