Have you ever wondered about the secret life of bats? Once considered unwelcomed pests, ecologists now realize that bats are beneficial animals, playing an important role in local ecosystems and helping to control insect populations.

Please join the Westmoreland Land Trust (WLT) on Friday, July 18^th from 8:15-9:45 PM for a special Pennsylvania Bats Talk & Walk at the Schwarz Nature and Art Park (530 Beech Hills Road, Jeannette, PA).

The evening will begin with a twenty-minute presentation in the Schwarz farmhouse. Wildlife biologist Julie Zeyzus will introduce attendees to Pennsylvania’s nine bat species, and give a brief review of bat echolocation and the use of ultrasonic monitoring equipment. WLT board member and founder of PixCams, Inc., Bill Powers, will share some of the fascinating videos that have been captured using live-stream bat cameras in the Schwarz barn.

After a short break, we’ll walk across the street to the back of the barn to observe the bats emerging. Julie will guide us on a walk while using portable ultrasonic monitoring equipment to “listen” for bats along the way.

The program is free and open to the public. Attendees should be able to walk comfortably on uneven ground. Please dress for the weather and wear closed-toes walking/hiking shoes. Bring a flashlight and water. Bug spray is recommended.  For more information call 724 325-3031 or email westmorelandlandtrust@gmail.com.