The Hidden World of Backyard Bats: Cafe Scientifique Katikati

Aotearoa is home to unique native bats, known as pekapeka, which are our only native land mammals. Despite flying through local backyards, orchard margins, and native bush patches, these nocturnal creatures often pass by completely unseen.

Dr Natasha Bansal from EcoQuest Centre presents field research on native pekapeka and local conservation strategies at Cafe Scientifique Katikati. Source: Cafē Scientifique Katikati

Cafe Scientifique Katikati has organised a public session to explore these threatened species and look at practical ways to help them survive and thrive. Guest speaker Dr Natasha Bansal, a wildlife researcher and educator from the EcoQuest Centre, will share key insights into bat behaviour, tracking, and habitat protection.

• Date and Time: Thursday, 20 August at 7:00 PM

• Venue: The Arts Junction Theatre, 36 Main Rd, Katikati

• Cost: Koha appreciated (everyone welcome)

• Speaker: Dr Natasha Bansal, wildlife researcher and educator at EcoQuest Centre

• Details: Light refreshments provided after the presentation

Protecting Backyard Bats: Cafe Scientifique Katikati

Local pest control, forest restoration, and native planting schemes directly influence whether pekapeka can thrive across Katikati and the wider Bay of Plenty. When communities understand native bat roosting habits and food sources, everyday backyard choices start to make a real difference for regional biodiversity.

Ngā mihi nui to the team at Cafe Scientifique Katikati and the EcoQuest Centre for bringing native wildlife research to our community. Kaiako and rangatahi value these opportunities to connect directly with the practical conservation science taking place across Aotearoa.