New Zealand’s critically endangered pekapeka, or long-tailed bat, will again take centre stage this Halloween — but organisers say there’s nothing spooky about these tiny nocturnal hunters.
Local Forest & Bird bat project co-ordinator Catriona Gower is inviting people to join her for a free guided bat-spotting evening on Friday, October 31, near Tawanui, just outside Owaka.
"The Catlins is fortunate in still being home to our critically endangered pekapeka. Enjoy the sight and sound of the local bats and discover the truth of what they really eat, how long they live, how big they are and— do they really get tangled in your hair?"
The group will meet on Catlins River Rd, about 1km from the Tawanui campsite, before sundown at 8pm.
All ages are welcome, all technical, bat-detector equipment will be provided, and the short walk is ideal for families.
Participants are encouraged to bring cold weather gear and a chair if they wish.
Mrs Gower said local "bat nights" had been growing steadily since 2014, as visitors became more aware of New Zealand’s only native mammals.
"We started out getting two to three visitors but that’s got up to as many as 100. That’s really heartening, because the aim is to grow an enthusiastic, caring interest in our wonderful bats through education," she said.
Bookings are essential by phoning Catriona on 0223 914 698 and the event may be cancelled if the weather is very wet, cold or windy — "the bats won’t be out flying!"
