2023 Bat Walks

For a second year in a row, we are pleased to offer free, family-friendly Bat Walks and Talks. Use ultrasonic detectors to listen to the echolocation calls of bats and discover how scientists use their unique vocal signatures to identify different species. Observe bats foraging for insects and learn about their vital role in natural pest control. This year’s bat walks will take place on the following dates:

• Saturday May 6, 8:30-9:30 PM – Sargeant Bay Park (Meet at the Lower Parking Lot)

• Sunday May 7, 8:30-9:30 PM – Sechelt Marsh (Meet at the trail head on Wharf Avenue)

• Saturday May 13, 8:30-9:30 PM – Tyner Park in Madeira Park (Meet at trail head opposite the Health Centre)

• Saturday May 20, 8:45-9:45 PM – Sechelt Marsh (Meet at the trail head on Wharf Avenue)

• Sunday May 21, 8:45-9:45 PM – Gibsons (Banditry Cider, 538 Pratt Road)

Dress warmly and bring a flashlight, and possibly a fold-up chair if sitting would be most comfortable for you. In case of rain or wind, walks may be rescheduled. Pre-registration is recommended to so we can contact you if we need to reschedule due to poor weather. To pre-register, please email coastwildlife@gmail.com

Our bat walk events are a part of Science Odyssey (sciod.ca), a country-wide festival supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) to celebrate Canadian achievements in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Every year in May, hundreds of science outreach leaders deliver fun, engaging, and inspiring activities to Canadians of all ages. Bat conservation and research activities on the Sunshine Coast are generously supported by NSERC, Habitat Stewardship Program, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Forest Enhancement Society of BC, and Gencon Foundation.