Events

Don't Miss This: Bats in the Belfry

By Dorothy Snodgrss
Tuesday September 14, 2010 - 11:49:00 AM

For those of you with a special spot in your heart for bats (not too many, I daresay), you should be pleased to hear of a September 21st meeting of the Berkeley Garden Club. On this occasion,the guest speaker will be Maggie Hooper of the California Bat Conservation Fund. 

Her subject will be "A Celebration of Bats." This meeting will be held at the Epworth United Methodist Church, 1954 Hopkins Street, Berkeley at 2 p.m. 

Bat Conservation International is conducting and supporting science-based conservation efforts around the world, helping to maintain healthy environments and human economies far into the future. It should be noted that no subject has generated more misinformation or fear about bats and rabies. Bats are neither rodents nor birds, and people cannot get rabies just from seeing them in an attic, in a cage, or at a distance. If you are bitten by a bat, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and get medical advice immediately. 

But bear in mind that bats are gentle, passive creatures that will bite only in self defense. They will NOT get in your hair; they're not interested in your hair! They help control pests and are vital pollinators and seed dispersers for control of plants. 

In her presentation, Ms. Hooper will bring live bats that can be seen up close, and will give advice on how to build and set up bat houses and how to keep bats out of your own home. 

So, for an illuminating discussion of a little known topic, we invite you to attend the September 21 of the Berkeley Garden Club, United Epworth Methodist Church, 1953 Hopkins Street. Refreshments will be served. For further information, call Joe Eaton Publicity Chair of the Club F (510) 845-9039,