Bats are among the most threatened mammals in Ontario, and several sp ecies found right here in this region have experienced steep declines due t o white-nose syndrome, habitat loss, and other pressures. This talk introdu ces acoustic bat monitoring—how ultrasound detectors allow us to &ldq uo;listen” for bats—and how the Couchiching Conservancy is usin g this tool to support bat recovery through community science. We’ll look at Ontario’s bat recovery strategies, share local examples from the Conservancy’s monitoring program, and explore how land trusts can play a key role in bat conservation by protecting habitat and collecting v aluable data. Together, local monitoring and land protection can help ensur e bats remain an integral part of our nighttime landscape.
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Toby Rowland is a dedicated conservation biologist with a passion for preserving biodiversity and ecosystems in this region. W ith over five years of experience at The Couchiching Conservancy, he has pl ayed a role in local conservation efforts, focusing on habitat protection, species monitoring, and working with community science volunteers.
< p>Toby holds a degree and diploma in Ecological Restoration from Trent U niversity and Sir Sandford Fleming College and has gained experience with a wide variety of species. This includes surveying for Bicknell's Thrush wit h Birds Canada, working on the Blanding's Turtle headstart program at the O ntario Turtle Conservation Centre, and participating in biodiversity resear ch in Guyana with Operation Wallacea.In his current role at The Couchiching Conservancy, Toby continues to work with a great team to pr otect the region’s natural heritage for future generations.
Northwest Barrie United Church, 464 Ferndale Drive North, Bar rie and start at 7:30pm. Meetings are held in Westennial Hall at the back o f the church. Park in the big lot off of Horsfield Drive
Remember to "LUG-A-MUG" for your beverages.
THE BUSINESS PORTION OF THE MEETINGS START AT 7:00 PM WITH THE SPEAKER TO FOLLOW. DOORS WILL BE OPEN AT 6:45 PM.
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