Bat Research and Conservation Project in conjunction with City of Coquitlam and Associated Labels and Packaging

Project Proposal for Bat Conservation in Lower Como Creek, in Coquitlam BC.

Applied Research Project, in conjunction with the City of Coquitlam

and Associated Labels and Packaging.

Jan 01st, 2024

Introduction
 

Como Creek is an intermediate sized, fish-bearing urban stream in Coquitlam, British Columbia. It flows south from Como Lake; the headwaters of the Como Creek watershed and flows into the Fraser River. The watershed covers approximately 8.2 km² and has 4 main tributaries: Popeye, Booth, Macdonald and Mill creeks. The southern portion of Como Creek and the forested riparian buffer area adjacent to the creek is the proposed project area (Figure 1). The site is 200-450 metres upstream of the Fraser River and is bounded by Clipper Street industrial complex to the west, Pacific Reach linear park trail to the east, and the Fraser River to the south. (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Location and extent of the Como Creek study site (~2.5 ha). Satellite imagery © Google 2021, shapefiles © City of Coquitlam 2022.

Context and Project Goals

Adding bat boxes to the riparian zone of Como Creek holds significant benefits for both landowners and the environment, particularly in the context of bat conservation amidst the threat of White Nose Syndrome. Bats are facing unprecedented challenges due to this devastating fungal disease, making the provision of suitable roosting habitats critical for their survival. The riparian zone, with its proximity to Como Creek, offers an ideal environment for bats, providing a refuge away from potential disturbances and supporting their recovery from White Nose Syndrome. Landowners can play a vital role in aiding bat conservation efforts by installing bat boxes, helping to mitigate the impact of this disease on bat populations. In turn, a thriving bat population contributes to a balanced ecosystem, maintaining biodiversity and promoting a healthier environment for Como Creek and its surroundings.

Goal 1: Assess and create additional bat habitat within the forested riparian zone of Como Creek.

Goal 2: Spread bat conservation awareness within the Clipper St. industrial complex.

Objectives:

1. Site Assessment:
   • Conduct a thorough survey of Como Creek to identify suitable locations for bat boxes.
   • Prior to installation of bat boxes the site should be assessed for existing populations of bats, which will inform the type of bat box that will be installed. Assessments will be completed in a series of bat surveys using an Echo Meter Touch 2  to identify bat species and approximate population number.
   • Como Creek will be assessed on the following criteria to be viable as a bat box candidate.

1. 1. Height: The location of the box should be tall enough to provide a clear flight path for bats when entering and exiting the bat box, “at least 3 m (10’) above the ground although 12’ to 20’ is better.” (Craig, 2015)
   2. Proximity to Water: Ideally, the tree or pole should be near Como Creek to provide bats easy access to water for drinking and foraging.
   3. Minimal Disruption: Choose a location that minimizes human disturbance. This helps prevent unnecessary stress to the bats and ensures the longevity of the bat box.
   4. Orientation to Sunlight: Position the bat box facing south, east or west. Bats prefer roosts with a moderate temperature.
   5. Accessibility for Monitoring: Ensure that the selected tree is accessible for monitoring and maintenance of the bat box. This facilitates regular checks and adjustments as needed.
   6. Community Approval: Consider community sentiments and obtain necessary approvals before installing a bat box on a specific tree. This ensures cooperation and support from local residents.

2. Community Engagement:
   • Organize a Clipper St community get together to unveil bat boxes that coincides with International Rivers Day 2024.
   • Seek support and involvement from residents, emphasizing the positive impact on insect control and biodiversity.
   • Extend invitation to representatives from the BC Community Bat Program to be involved in both the bat box installation and the community get together.
3. Monitoring and Maintenance:
   • Establish a monitoring program to track bat occupancy and behavior at the installed boxes.
   • Train local volunteers to assist in regular maintenance, including cleaning and repairs to ensure longevity and attractiveness to bats.
   • Continuously assess the success of the bat conservation project.
   • Adjust strategies based on monitoring data and community feedback, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the initiative.
4. Data Collection:
   • Collect data on bat populations, species diversity, and their impact on local insect populations.
   • Share findings with the community, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment among those involved.

References:

Community bat programs of BC. BC BATS. (2023, December 28). https://bcbats.ca/

Craig, J. (2015, December 17). Building  Homes for Bats A Guide for Bat Houses  in British Columbia. Vancouver BC; BC Bat Community Program.

Echo meter touch 2 active bat detector. Wildlife Acoustics. (n.d.). https://www.wildlifeacoustics.com/products/echo-meter-touch-2-android-2

Web Easy Professional  Avanquest Software. (n.d.). The Como Watershed Group. THE COMO WATERSHED GROUP. https://vcn.bc.ca/cwg/