The first-ever Toronto Bat Celebration flies high over the city for two weeks in August, with events at Downsview Park, High Park Nature Centre and the Toronto Zoo. More than just symbols of Halloween and vampire stories, bats are important mammals in our urban ecosystem. So, get the whole family together to learn all about these mysterious, fascinating and misunderstood animals!

Downsview Park — Bats: A Batty Adventure

Join an indoor presentation with an introduction to the various bat species found in Ontario and the threats they face, then head outdoors for an evening nature walk through Downsview Park — who knows what nighttime urban critters you may encounter along the way?! The world of bats is wonderful, so learn about how scientists study these amazing creatures in cities. Pack your head lamps and flashlights and come on down for an evening of urban nature.
When: August 15, 2023
Time: 8:00-9:30pm
Where: Downsview Park (behind the building next to the greenhouse), 70 Canuck Avenue, Toronto
Website: www.downsviewpark.ca

High Park Nature Centre — Summer Bat Walks

At this family-friendly event, take a walk around High Park to learn from naturalists about the amazing and mysterious bats that call Toronto parks home. Start with an interactive presentation outside the Nature Centre to learn about bat behaviours, habitat, and foods. Then, explore High Park’s trails using handheld bat detectors, listening for their ultrasonic calls as they swoop and loop during the evening.
When: August 19 and August 30, 2023
Time: 8:00-9:30pm
Where: High Park Nature Centre, 375 Colborne Lodge Drive, Toronto
Website: www.highparknaturecentre.com

Toronto Zoo — Zoo After Dark: An Evening with Native Bats

Toronto Zoo’s family program highlights their Native Bat Conservation Program, where you can find out more about how the zoo is working to help bats, and hear some of the success stories to date. Then, accompany the experts on a short tour and venture out to listen to the night and identify wild bats using special equipment.
When: August 26, 2023
Time: 7:30-9:00pm
Where: The Toronto Zoo, 2000 Meadowvale Avenue, Toronto
Website: www.torontozoo.com

Get out into nature with our list of Park events here!