Long Island to celebrate Bat Week
A Mariana fruit bat is seen in a file photo. Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Bat enthusiasts will have a chance to celebrate the winged creatures on Long Island next week, as part of the third annual Bat Week.
The National Park Service and other national and international conservation organizations are partnering for the week in a quest to raise awareness for bat conservation.
“Bats are fascinating creatures that should be celebrated,” said Long Island native Dalton Brauer, a Student Conservation Association intern who monitors bats for the National Park Service on Fire Island, in a press release. “These events are a great way to celebrate the species we are working to protect.”
Educational and recreational events will be held around the country, including on Long Island between Saturday and Oct. 31.
Local events include a fundraiser supporting the conservation of Long Island’s bats, a ranger-led presentation for children, and outdoor bat-watching opportunities. The events will be hosted by the NPS, the Seatuck Environmental Association and the New York State Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Here are the events on Long Island and in New York City:
Bats & Brews, a fundraiser supporting the conservation of Long Island’s bats
Scully Mansion, Seatuck Environmental Association
Saturday, Oct. 22, 7 to 11 p.m.
Tickets required
Going Batty for Bats, a ranger-led presentation and activities and for kids
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
Sunday, Oct. 23, 1 p.m.
National Bat Week Celebration
Central Park Zoo
Thursday, Oct. 27, noon to 4 p.m.
Tickets required
Creatures of the Night Program, which includes outdoor bat-watching
Wilderness Visitor Center, Fire Island National Seashore
Friday, Oct. 28, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Bat Bonanza
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
Friday, Oct. 28, 7 to 9 p.m.
Tickets required
Halloween Happenings
Monday, Oct. 31, 3 to 6 p.m.
Patchogue-Medford Library
