10/31/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/31/2023 07:30
It's Bat Week, and we're highlighting the many benefits provided by these winged wonders. Did you know that bats play an important role in our environment and help maintain the balance of South Florida's ecosystems?
In recognition of Bat Week, we encourage you to explore these bat-tastic facts and learn more about Florida's bat species:
Florida has 13 resident species of bats. Eight of these 13 species call South Florida home. All bat species are protected by law year-round in Florida to conserve their populations. To aid in this effort, SFWMD staff routinely conduct surveys of tree cavities and our human-made structures. SFWMD staff also use acoustical surveys in parts of the SFWMD region that fall within the range of the endangered Florida Bonneted Bat.
Some species have taken to roosting in homes, sheds, and businesses. If you have bats near you, do not harm them or attempt to remove them yourself. For more information read the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's "Bats in Buildings" guide.