The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Wildlife Division and the Department of Economic and Community Development are celebrating Bat Appreciation Day this Saturday, Sept. 19.
The event will take place at the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“The event highlights the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine’s critical role as winter habitat for state-endangered bat species that have experienced significant population declines, while also recognizing the site’s unique place in Connecticut’s history,” according to DEEP.
“The Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine provides critical winter habitat for state-endangered bat species that have experienced significant population declines, making the site a crucial part of our efforts to conserve these unique and important endangered animals,” said Emma Cimino, acting DEEP commissioner. “We are grateful for the partnership of the DECD Office of State Historic Preservation, which allows us to advance bat conservation while also preserving and sharing one of Connecticut’s most significant historic sites.”
“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, especially as our country celebrates its 250th anniversary this year.”
“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 all used this site to hibernate during the winter months. DECD and DEEP have worked 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.”