Bats: Big Eaters with a Bad Reputation

 10:00 a.m. Saturday May 16
Sandpoint Community Hall
204 S.1st Ave
Sandpoint, ID 83864

Coffee, tea and treats available beginning at 9:30 a.m.
 

Join Wildlife Biologist Carrie Hugo for a presentation on Bats.  Bats are widely misunderstood animals, but most myths about them—such as being dangerous or disease‑ridden—are inaccurate. This highly diverse group of mammals evolved over 80 million years ago and now make up 20 percent of all mammalian species. 

Carrie will discuss their remarkable adaptations including powered flight, echolocation, and the ability to hibernate or enter torpor. Idaho’s bats are primarily insectivores and play a major ecological role by consuming vast numbers of insects each night. Despite their importance, bats face significant threats such as habitat loss, roost disturbance, wind turbines, declining insect abundance, and White‑nose Syndrome, making conservation efforts essential.

The multimedia presentation will have a special emphasis on North American and North Idaho Bats and their ecological roles, habitat requirements, and conservation needs. 

The program is co-sponsored by Sandpoint Parks & Recreation, with support from East Bonner County Library District. Free and open to the public.

Sunday, May 17
9:00-12:00

Join KNPS to get the Arboretum ready for the summer season. Help is needed clearing paths, picking up downed branches, and more. There’s a job for everyone, and the rewards are seeing the Arboretum ready for visitors and working with a congenial crew.
KNPS has some tools, but bring your own favorites too.

The Arboretum is located just south of the Bonner County Historical Museum on S. Ella Ave. in Sandpoint, ID