Langley City is protecting and enhancing bat habitats and promoting learning and awareness about the value of local bat colonies in our natural environment.
On October 7, 2024, Langley City officially became a Bat-Friendly community designated by the BC Community Bat Programs of BC.
Why Bats Matter
Bats play a vital role in our ecosystem by:
- Controlling insect populations
- Pollinating plants
- Supporting biodiversity
However, bat species in BC are declining due to:
- Habitat loss
- Climate change
- White-Nose Syndrome, a deadly fungal disease
Langley City's commitment to bats and the environment
Langley City, in partnership with BC Bats, Langley Environmental Partners Society, and the Langley Field Naturalists, has pledged to:
- Protect and create homes for bats: Install bat houses and preserve places where bats live.
- Teach the community about bats: Through educational materials, school programs, and public outreach, we’re helping residents understand the importance of bats in our environment.
- Engage the community: Host fun and informative events such as bat presentations, guided bat walks, and bat-house-building workshops.
How You Can Help
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Here’s how you can get involved:
- Report bat sightings or resting sites to help researchers monitor populations.
- Protect bat habitat by preserving old trees, avoiding pesticides, and installing bat boxes.
- Avoid disturbing bats, especially during hibernation and maternity seasons, typically between late fall to early spring.
- Participate in citizen science projects, such as the BC Bat Count during the summer.