Bats rank at expert level for scary creatures of the night for many people. But unlike zombies, bats play a vital role throughout Maryland. Let’s meet up for a short walk at dusk to discover how bats contribute to our ecosystems, learn about their superpowers, look for clues to identify a few local species, and enjoy their aerial acrobatics on this trip with naturalist Sarah Witcher.
We will probably see big brown bats with hoary and Eastern red bats also common. With our echolocation detectors, we could see or hear any of the 10 species found in Maryland, although the Myotis species are rare and unlikely.
Our field trip leader, Sarah Witcher, works for the Department of Natural Resources as an education biologist. Sarah’s time is spent as the state coordinator for Project WILD, a committee member for the Envirothon high school competition program, and the leader of the Wild Acres backyard habitat program. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in biology and psychology from Loyola University, Maryland, and a Master’s in Environmental Science and Policy from Johns Hopkins University. Her free time is spent with her family of humans and animals, eating delicious food, and exploring new places.
Remember to
- Dress according to the weather. Rain will cancel.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes to protect your toes while walking in the dark.
- Bring binoculars.
- No pets, please.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
NEW – Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.