A Sudbury environmental organization is aiming to shift public perception of bats from fear to curiosity by studying the local bat population in the city. The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee recently organized a “bat walk” at Park Lawn Cemetery, where participants utilized iPads equipped with echometers to detect the high-frequency sounds emitted by bats through echolocation.
Evan Voutier, an ecological technician with the committee, highlighted the significant interest in bats in the Sudbury region and the limited research on local bat species. The committee’s research focuses on exploring how bats utilize various habitats in Greater Sudbury, including abandoned mines that serve as hibernation sites for some bat species.
Biologist and naturalist Franco Mariotti, a volunteer with the group, emphasized the importance of understanding local bat populations, particularly in light of threats such as white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that has led to substantial declines in bat numbers across North America. Mariotti also pointed out the risks that wind turbines pose to bats due to rapid pressure changes, which can result in internal trauma and fatalities.
Despite these challenges, the research conducted by the Junction Creek Stewardship Committee has revealed the presence of all eight bat species found in Ontario within the Sudbury area. Mariotti underscored the crucial role bats play as predators of insects, aiding in pest control in agricultural and forest ecosystems.
The committee’s efforts to engage the public through “bat walks” are aimed at fostering a greater appreciation for bats and the natural world. The next public event is scheduled for August 19, offering an opportunity for community members to learn more about these fascinating creatures and their ecological significance.