Rindge Conservation Commission invites the public to an enthusiastic presentation by Jacques Veilleux, Monadnock’s own Batman, on Monday, October 13, 6:30 p.m. at the Rindge Recreation Center, 283 Wellington Road. The talk celebrating Bat Appreciation Month will highlight the presence and activities of bats in the fall season and where they hibernate in winter. The event is free, open to the public, and offers useful information on this often misunderstood and largely beneficial mammal.

Jacques Veilleux is a wildlife biologist and Professor of Biology and Environmental Science & Policy at Franklin Pierce University. He is a mammalogist with extensive research experience in the biology of bats including: lead biologist in surveys of the hibernating population of bats for NH Fish and Game, two decades of research on the biology of bats during NH’s summer months, and nationwide surveys on endangered and threatened bat species determining impacts of economic development (e.g. natural gas pipeline, wind turbine, and electrical grid developments) on bat populations.

His research has contributed a broad understanding of bat biology in New Hampshire and beyond, which can be applied to this fascinating group of mammal’s conservation. Veilleux says, “Bats provide 'free' ecological services to humans. Bats are the main predator of night flying insects. Without them the populations of insects, and our costs to control them, would increase. Since bats offer us a free helping hand, I think we should return the gesture.”

As a follow-up to the presentation, Rindge Conservation offers a Bat Watch hike on Sunday, September 19, 3:30 p.m. at Miriam Hunt Forest (on NH Rt. 119 across from Cutter Hill Rd.)

Bat Conservation International sponsors Bat Appreciation Month, described as a month-long celebration of Bat Week (October 24 – 31, 2025.) Their purpose is to highlight the importance of bats and the ongoing conservation efforts needed to protect these incredible mammals. You can learn more about bats and Bat Appreciation Month at www,batcon.org.

The Rindge Conservation Commission actively monitors and protects wetlands, lakeshores, watersheds, and other natural resources within the Town of Rindge. Hikes, workdays, and events are held regularly to involve and educate the public about conservation areas and benefits of preserving land for the future. Town-owned conservation lands are open daily to the public for outdoor recreation.

If you would like more information about the Rindge Conservation Commission or these upcoming events, please email rindgeconcom@rindgenh.gov.