The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Wildlife Division and the Department of Economic and Community Development State Historic Preservation Office are hosting “a celebration of bat conservation at the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby,” today, according to the agencies.
The event, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., is to help “raise awareness about the story of one of Connecticut’s most intriguing historical sites and its importance to the conservation,” according to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
“Cave bats are affected by the disease known as white-nose syndrome (WNS). In the 19 years since its initial detection in New York, WNS has killed millions of bats throughout the Northeast,” the Department went on to say. “The disease has spread to at least 40 states and nine Canadian provinces and is suspected to be present in an additional five U.S. states and one Canadian province.”
“The day will feature bat activities for the whole family and include exhibits, bat story time, historical tales, the unique opportunity to sneak a peek at the “bat cave,” bat crafts for kids, a free entry for a chance to win a fun door prize, and more.”
“Many of Connecticut’s bat populations have declined by more than 90% in the past two decades due to the impact of white-nose syndrome,” said Katie Dykes, DEEP Commissioner. “This annual event allows us to celebrate the conservation partnership between DEEP and DECD in protecting both these valuable species and the historically significant habitat they rely on, and to share the results of this important effort with the public.”
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“We are excited to be partnering with DEEP,” said Morgan Bengel, site manager of Old New-Gate. “Bat Appreciation Day is a great opportunity to showcase our facility and connect people with the cultural and natural history here.”
“This is a great chance to learn the remarkable history of Old New-Gate Prison and view it through the lens of the state-endangered bats that depend on it as their winter home,” said Jenny Dickson, DEEP Wildlife Division Director. “Little brown, tri-colored, and northern long-eared bats have used this site to hibernate during the winter months. DECD and DEEP work closely together to protect this unique site, and we look forward to telling its history, the story of the bats, and the importance of both for conservation efforts in the future.”
