In the late November Nature Guide we learned about White Nose Syndrome and the dramatic decline it is causing in bat populations across North America. The mid-April Nature Guide has us on the look-out for both Big and Little Brown Bats that are starting to emerge from winter hibernation. Both of these species take up summer residence in cavities and crevices that remain dark and warm during the day. Because of this behaviour, bats will also roost in bat boxes that can be easily constructed from some basic materials. This resource offers a simple set of plans for building bat boxes. In doing so, students will be providing habitat and making a real contribution to the overall breeding success of these important species. For the many female bats that mated in the preceding fall, now is the perfect time to build and install the boxes out in the school yard or community.
The resource includes supplementary links to information about bat biology and ecology.
In addition to serving as a companion to the mid-April Nature Guide, this activity could be the practical component to a more comprehensive study of bats and their importance in sustaining ecosystems. This focus fits nicely with Science 4, Science 7, Science 10 and Environmental Science 12. Students could scout locations within their school yard to place their bat houses or they may wish to install them at home.
A potential action project might involve students providing both bat conservation information and boxes to members of the community.
The following tool will allow you to explore the relevant curriculum matches for this resource. To start, select a province listed below.