Discovery Speaker Series

Join Puget Sound Estuarium at the Olympia Timberland Library for the Discovery Speaker Series. On the 1st Thursday of every month, learn and stay informed about current environmental research and sustainability projects.

You'll hear from scientists, educators, artists, and earth advocates about their current work, research, or organization. Plus get your questions answered live after the talk!

About the presentation: Bat Conservation 101 -- Why Bats Matter

Bats play an important role in healthy ecosystems, but their populations face growing threats from climate change, habitat loss, wind energy and disease.

One of the most serious threats is white-nose syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease that has caused major declines in hibernating bats across North American, including Washington State. Bats help control insect pests, support pollination, and provide valuable insights into environmental health. This presentation will introduce the bats of Washington, explain the impacts of WNS and highlight ways people can help protect bats and their habitats. By understanding and supporting bats, the community can help preserve an important part of the natural world.