Western Outdoor Times - Times Spent Outdoors: Priceless!

Bats get a bad rap, but the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) aims to change that by highlighting the good they do – such as eating pesky mosquitoes and flies – during a bat netting and monitoring workshop on Friday, Sept. 6.

The event runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Needle Rock Recreation Area northeast of Scottsdale and costs $25 per person, with proceeds going to help the department provide other wildlife viewing events statewide.

During the event, participants will observe the capture and identification of local bat species alongside AZGFD biologists as part of the department's overall bat conservation and monitoring efforts.

AZGFD Watchable Wildlife Program Manager Jeff Meyers and department biologists will provide a dynamic experience educating attendees about Arizona's 28 species of bats, while netting over the Verde River. Attendees will help identify bats captured and collect important data before the animals are released unharmed.

Space for the event is limited. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register early to reserve their spot by visiting https://www.register-ed.com/programs/arizona/186-world-of-wonder .

Participants should also wear long pants, close-toed shoes, insect repellent, and bring water, a headlamp or flashlight, and a chair. To reach the events, head east on Rio Verde Drive to Needle Rock Road and head north 2.5 miles until you reach the fully developed recreation area.