Bats of New England: Amazing Animals, Essential Allies
Bats are among the most remarkable, important, and misunderstood animals in New England. They consume enormous numbers of insects, play important roles in healthy ecosystems, and
possess extraordinary adaptations that allow them to thrive in the darkness. But today, many of New England’s bat species face serious challenges. Some bat species have declined by upwards of 90% over the past two decades by the emergence of a devastating disease called “White Nose Syndrome”.
Join wildlife ecologist and nature author Brad Timm for an engaging presentation exploring the remarkable ecology and conservation of New England’s bats. And learn about simple things
you can do at home to help these fascinating animals. You’ll discover many things you likely never knew about these nighttime neighbors of ours, including:
• Amazing adaptations that make bats such successful nighttime hunters
• The surprising diversity of bats found throughout New England
• The important ecological roles bats play
• What White Nose Syndrome is and the impact it has had on bat populations
• And simple things you can do to help them
Along the way, Brad will clear-up some common myths about bats and reveal the surprisingly fascinating lives of these often-overlooked neighbors. Whether you’re a longtime bat enthusiast or simply curious about the wildlife flying overhead after sunset, this presentation offers a fascinating look at one of New England’s most unique groups of mammals.
Brad is a wildlife ecologist, author, and founder of the Northeast Wildlife Team, an organization dedicated to helping people better understand—and connect with and help—the natural world around them. He is the author of America is Wild!, an illustrated state-by-state encyclopedia of nearly 200 animals and 200 plants of the United States, and of the Wildlife Out Your Window regional wildlife book series, which invites readers to discover the hidden lives of the wildlife they see every day, turning backyards, neighborhoods, and local landscapes into places of wonder.
Brad holds M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Wildlife Conservation from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and has published extensively in scientific journals. These days he splits his time between writing upcoming wildlife books and leading engaging wildlife programs and presentations for a wide range of audiences. When he’s not working, Brad can usually be found hiking local trails, saltwater fishing, or spending time outdoors with friends and loved ones.
For adults, and children ages 12+