Multiscale Bat Habitat Selection and population trends at Maternity Colonies and Hibernacula in Southwestern Quebec

Bats are fascinating animals that provide many ecological services by regulating insect populations. They can eat about 600 insect per hour! Since the introduction of white-nose syndrome in 2006, bat populations in North America have become increasingly threatened. This fungal disease has caused dramatic decreases in many bat populations. Without a cure for white-nose syndrome, the protection of bats and their habitat might be the best way we can help them. However, since bats are small and nocturnal, their preferred habitats are understudied. In partnership with the Kenauk Institute, we will create a portrait of bats habitat selection at summer roosts and at winter hibernacula in Quebec. We will use citizen science data to collate information on bat population trends and map known maternity roosts and hibernacula to study the landscape surrounding them. The result will help us understand where and which species of bats live on the Kenauk Reserve and what habitat we should protect to help them. It will help land managers like the Kenauk Institute to take informed decision when managing land with known bat presence.

Faculty Supervisor:

Kyle Elliott

Student:

Jade Legros;Amelie Fontaine

Partner:

The Kenauk Institute

Discipline:

Resources and environmental management

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

McGill University