Please join the San Diego River Park Foundation at Boulder Creek Preserve for an evening adventure that will encompass a full-spectrum, ecosystem-based approach to learning about San Diego's rich biodiversity. This event is part of California Biodiversity Week, celebrating California's rich biodiversity and contributing to the state's 30x30 initiative. We will start by observing nature's flora and fauna along the preserve. As night approaches and the sun begins to set, we will listen and look for bats as we walk along Boulder Creek and visit an abandoned mine. In addition, we will set up a UV light to attract and observe moths and other insects, a common food source for many bat species and other animals. During this event, we will observe species using iNaturalist, contributing to our understanding of where plants and animals are found in these remote areas. We will learn about bats by monitoring their echolocation calls using bioacoustics and identify moth species along with many other important species along Boulder Creek.
All ages are welcome! The event will take place at Boulder Creek Preserve near Descanso. The meeting address is 14741 Boulder Creek Rd, Descanso, CA 91916. Please bring a flashlight or headlamp, smartphone or camera, wear long pants and closed-toed shoes, and bring sunscreen and insect repellent
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for the event:
- Bring at least one smartphone or camera per group
- Check-In: 5:00 PM
- Attire: Long pants and closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended
- Other Items to Bring: Reusable water bottle, hat, other forms of sun protection, and a]potentially a folding chair
- Moths and other cool insects come out a bit later than 8pm, so if you want to stick around we welcome you to bring a folding chair!
- Weather: Light rain will not cancel the event
- For safety reasons, no pets are allowed at this event
- There are no restroom facilities at this location
- Family friendly!
Check out this news article by KPBS: Bat Season has begun in San Diego, where Natalie Borchardt and Don Endicott talk about the importance of bats for San Diego county.
