Notice: The Game and Fish web site will be down for standard maintenance on Monday, November 9, 2009 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm |
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Bats aren’t so bad after all News Media Aug 7, 2008 Learn more about these unique night flyers and dispel the myths Did you know that bats are the slowest reproducing mammals on earth for their size? Did you know that every night they provide free insect-control services to the Valley? The Arizona Game and Fish Department invites you to attend a free bat workshop on Friday, Aug. 15 to learn the answers to these questions and find out more about these shy, misunderstood creatures.
“Bats are plagued by a lot of inaccurate myths,” says Angela McIntire, Arizona Game and Fish Department bat management coordinator. “But, they do so many good things like helping protect agricultural crops and our backyards from being overrun by pesky insects.” Arizona is home to 28 bat species, including two species that are nectar-feeders and pollinate plants like the saguaro and agaves. Mexican free-tailed bats are found throughout Arizona in the summer and most migrate south in the winter. It has a wingspan of 11 to 13 inches, and it roosts in caves, tunnels, and crevices in tunnels, bridges and buildings. Bats are most frequently observed between April and October, but many species are active year-round in the state. They are the only mammal that can truly fly and, contrary to popular myth, bats are not blind. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet some of the Valley’s more secretive residents. The event is free to the public. Educators are also encouraged to attend and receive continuing education credit. Those attending the workshop should park in the retail parking lot on the southwest corner of 40th Street and Camelback Road, walk north along 40th Street, and then proceed west on the north side of the canal until they reach the Maricopa County Flood Control District tunnel. The tunnel is approximately ½ mile from 40th Street. It will be marked with signage. The public is encouraged to arrive with ample time: The bats leave at sunset and won’t wait! For more information about bats in Arizona, visit www.azgfd.gov. |
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