Polk County Conservation
The Polk County Conservation Bat Monitoring Program is designed to learn which bat houses around the county are being utilized and by what type of colony. Monitoring is done by performing bat house emergence counts which entails counting how many bats exit and reenter bat houses shortly after sunset. Bat house emergent counts can vary in lasting between 25 minutes to 1 hour. Regular intervals of monitoring provide valuable insight regarding distribution, roost preferences, and population estimates bats found across the county. Whether you are a beginner or experienced naturalist, there is a place for you in our wildlife volunteer program. All wildlife monitor volunteers will be provided training and instruction as needed. Bat wildlife monitors are expected to: - Meet with volunteer staff for onboarding and training - Walk their designated route and collect data once a month or more if desired* - Communicate needs and requests for more training/education if needed - Submit their volunteer hours and data collected *Volunteer bat monitors are asked to monitor at least 6 times per park and not per bat house location.
Increase our understanding of bat populations and colony types within our local county parks.
For questions about the Bat Monitoring Program please contact Michael French | michael.french@polkcountyiowa.gov or conservationvolunte..@polkcountyiowa.gov
This opportunity is appropriate for ages 8+. No experience necessary. Can be done individually or with a group. Monitoring is done shortly after sunset and will mean not leaving the monitoring site(s) until after it is dark outside. What to Bring: It is recommended to dress for the weather. Bring materials to track/count the bats you see emerging and reentering the bat house(s). Wear bug netting, long pants and long sleeve shirts, and/or bug spray to protect yourself from bug bites.
By registering for this volunteer opportunity, I acknowledge I am filling an open position. In the event that I and/or members of my group are unable to participate, I will cancel my registration to allow for others to join this opportunity.
| Position | Dates | Need | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Monitoring Volunteer – Bat Monitor Easter Lake | Dec 01, 2025 - Dec 01, 2026 | 1 | Volunteer |