The University of Florida / St. Lucie County Cooperative Extension in conjunction with the Manatee Observation and Education Center will be offering a "Bat-tastic Night Out With Nature" on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 5:30 p.m. During this one of a kind event, Manatee Center Education Coordinator Lesley Vincent-Ryder, along with University of Florida/St. Lucie County Extension Natural Resource Agent Ken Gioeli will guide you on a search for life after dark.

Have you ever wondered what kind of bats live in Florida? What do they eat? Are the dangerous to humans?Visit the Manatee Center as guest speaker Ken Gioeli as he shares his expert knowledge of bats. Learn about this fascinating, beautiful, misunderstood mammal that is an essential part of a healthy ecosystem. As the sun sets we will relocate to a bat hot spot with hopes of viewing a bat colony as they leave to forage for the evening. Gioeli will bring along bat detectors and a pair of night vision goggles for our quest to discover these nocturnal creatures! Bat detectors are devices which transmute ultrasonic echolocation sounds-used by bats to hunt insects-into frequencies audible to humans.

This bat watch is fun for the whole family. Participants should wear long-sleeve shirts, bug spray, and bring lawn chairs and flashlights. Participants should be comfortable moving around in dark, unleveled areas. Participants will be required to relocate approximately 10 miles to a bat roost in their own transportation. Directions will be given after the presentation on the night of the event.

Cost is $10 per person ages 12 and up. Cost is $5 for ages 11 and under. Pre-registration and pre-payment is required. All participants must sign a liability waiver. Adult supervision is required. Spaces are limited to the first 25 paid registrants. Unregistered visitors will be turned away. Call Lesley (772) 466-1600 X3337 to register (phones are routed through FPUA).

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