The Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association is pleased to present local bat enthusiast Annie Kassler on Wednesday, April 2, 6:30 p.m. at the office, 624 Sheepscot Road in Newcastle. The program (rescheduled from February) is free and open to the public. Participants that want to stay to build and take home a bat box need to register with SVCA at 207-586-5616.

Kassler has developed connections with bat scientists and enthusiasts throughout Maine and the United States. There are over 1,000 species of bats in the world and they are likely the most misunderstood and under-appreciated creatures on the planet. Bats play an essential role in our planet’s ecology and global economy as one of nature’s best “natural insecticide” and pollinator species.

In addition to why bats are important, Kassler will highlight myths versus facts, amazing bat skills and display successful bat houses. She will also discuss White Nose Syndrome that is devastating bat populations in Maine and all of eastern North America.

This talk is the fifth in the SVCA’s winter series “Citizen Science: You don’t have to be a scientist to do science.” After the program (around 8 p.m.), SVCA staff will lead bat box building for those interested in making a bat roosting box for their yard. Materials will be pre-cut and instructions and tools will be provided. Registration is required, and there is a suggested donation of $10 to cover the cost of lumber. All ages are welcome. Call or email the office to register at 207-586-5616 or svca@sheepscot.org.

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