The Town of Comox has officially been designated the first Bat Friendly Community on Vancouver Island.

“The Town of Comox has a reputation for championing the bat population and increasing community awareness by hosting workshops and building bat boxes in our park spaces,” said Comox Mayor, Nicole Minions.

“Protecting the bat population means a healthier environment for us all. This is something good we can do for our local Vancouver Island ecosystem that is low resourcing thanks to the dedication and hard work of the Comox bat team for their efforts.”

The certification is endorsed by the BC Community Bat Program, a science-based network of biologists who promote awareness and stewardship of bats across the province.

The Town joins other mainland communities that have received the designation, including Delta, Richmond, Port Moody, Dawson Creek, and Peachland.

“Bats are incredibly important to our local ecosystems, agricultural interests, and human comfort, but are often overlooked,” said Tim Ennis, Regional Bat Program Coordinator.

“With so many existing threats to bat populations and the likelihood of additional concerns from White Nose Syndrome on the horizon, the time to act is now. The Town of Comox is demonstrating leadership in bat conservation, and we hope other communities will choose to do so as well.”

The Town of Comox parks department will continue identifying additional bat habitats and locations for bat boxes within the park system. In addition, staff will be pursuing further educational and learning opportunities for the public by hosting bat talks and promoting bat week this fall.

For more information on the Town of Comox’s designation as a Bat Friendly Community, visit Town of Comox.