The recording of the presentation is now available on our YouTube Channel at https://youtu.be/eAZKvDRKQJM
During Bat Week (last week in October) the wetlands committee hosted a fun presentation looking into the mysterious and extraordinary world of bats – the only mammal capable of true flight! Jessie Bunkley of Bat Conservation International led us in an exploration of the fascinating biology and nocturnal habits of bats, their critical role in our local ecosystems, (including pollination and insect control) and threats of extinction. She also told us about some of the 13 local bat species found in Marin, dispel common myths, and discuss how we can live alongside them in mutually beneficial ways.
Did you know that bats are responsible for pollinating many fruits we love, such as bananas, avocados, and mangos? That their wings evolved from hands? That some bats can eat more than 1,000 mosquitos an hour and fly more than 60 miles an hour? That they can find insects to eat in total darkness using echolocation?
Bat Conservation International’s mission is to conserve the world’s bats and their ecosystems to ensure a healthy planet. Its work includes endangered species interventions and protecting and restoring landscapes among other things. Their work encompasses global bat populations. More information can be found at https://www.batcon.org/
This presentation is part of our ongoing series of educational events about our precious local wetlands. Click here to view previously recorded Wetlands Committee presentations that are posted on the Coalition’s YouTube Channel.