Kids Get a Little Batty at Belmont Library

Getting up close and personal with a live bat is something that most adults would steer clear of---but the kids who attended the bat event at the Wednesday night couldn't get close enough.

Following an interesting presentation on the science of bats--the only flying mammal--Monique Lee of the Bat Conservancy of Coastal California (BatCCC.org), brought out two of her native bat buddies for the kids and their parents to see. One of the bats, known as a micro or vampire bat, even gobbled up some mealworms that were fed to him by the kids. (Monique's two bats were rescued but are unable to fly, so they remain in the care of BatCCC. Typically, rehabilitated bats that are able to fly are placed back into the wild.)

According to its website, the Bat Conservancy of Coastal California focuses on rescue, rehabilitation and public education about the many unique and varied species of bats.

BCCC works closely with local wildlife rescue organizations in efforts to rescue and rehabilitate bats. Monique's parting advice to the kids and their parents was if you find a bat, do not touch! Call a bat rehabilitator in your area.

For more information on bats and other wild animals, go to www.wildlifeed.org.

For more information on the Summer Reading Club at the Belmont Library, click here.

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