International Bat Appreciation Day occurs annually on April 17.
It is a great time of year to observe bats and learn about the important role they play in nature.
In mid-April bats in the Greater Vancouver region are migrating from their winter hibernaculum to their summer habitat. During this time, bats are often reported above people’s doorways. Please allow the bat to stay and rest. They need to replenish their fat reserves after hibernating and females are preparing for pregnancy. They will feed on insects for a few nights and then continue their journey to their summer habitat. There are no concerns if you allow the bat to stay and do not disturb it. Please report bat sightings and the date bats return to their roost to Danielle at: [email protected].
Interesting bat facts
- Globally there are over 1,400 species of bats, approximately 1/5 of all the mammal species in the world.
- Nearly 70% of worldwide bat species feed inclusively in insects include insect pests
- All bats in Canada are insectivores, playing a vital role in managing insect populations (e.g., in one hour a bat can eat up to 600 mosquitoes)
- Bats are the only mammal naturally capable of true and sustained flight
- Bats reproduce slowly, usually having only one pup per year
- Bats can see in the dark, have very good hearing, and use echolocation to navigate and find food
- Bats are clean animals, grooming themselves almost constantly
- Bats do not chew wood or wires like rodents. Their sharp teeth are used to crunch hard bodied insects
- Some species of bats can live up to 40 years
- Bats in Canada hibernate or migrate in the winter, with little known about how and where
- B.C. has 15 species of bats, the greatest diversity of any Canadian province
- B.C.'s largest bat is the Hoary Bat, with a wingspan of 39 cm and weighing as much as a dinner fork
- Half of B.C.’s 15 bat species are listed as vulnerable, threatened, or endangered. Bat populations are in trouble due to many threats including habitat loss, and White-nose Syndrome
- All bats in B.C. are protected under the Wildlife Act.
Bats in our community
- Bats emerge from hibernation or return from more southern areas in the spring
- Bats roost in natural and artificial sites such as old trees, buildings, and bat boxes, which are critical habitats for bats in B.C.
- Many roosts in human structures are maternity colonies, used year after year by related groups of females who are preparing to give birth
- Bats consume an abundant number of insects such as mosquitoes and agricultural and forest pests
- Bats are fascinating and provide a great learning opportunity, especially for children.
What you can do to help
- Report known roost sites, dead bats, and unusual late winter/early spring bat behavior (e.g., bats flying during the daytime) to [email protected] or call 1-855-922-2287 ext. 11
- Work with local or regional groups to conserve bat habitats (e.g., old trees and buildings, water bodies) on your property and in the community
- Participate in monitoring and habitat enhancement programs (e.g., box installation) to help bats
- Educate your friends and families about bats, their benefits, and the threats they face and encourage them to be stewards of these important species
- Help bats by planting a bat garden or volunteering through the BC Community Bat Program.
Bats are important, are in trouble, and need your help. Learn more at: www.bcbats.ca.
Editor’s note: Danielle Dagenais is the regional bat coordinator for the Metro Vancouver-Squamish area.
