Bat Ecology, Conservation, & Research Methods

from $525.00

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  • The conservation of endangered bat species requires an understanding of their unique physiological ecology. Understanding the suite of adaptations that enable bats to occupy their niche provides valuable insight into their demographics, which is a central component of any effective management strategy. This course introduces students to these fascinating and complex mammals. In addition to learning about bat phylogenetics, anatomy, and physiology, which in turn informs their life history and the ecological roles they perform within ecosystems, the course also covers the major threats to bats, basic concepts and protocols for monitoring bat populations in temperate regions, and current strategies for population stabilization and recovery.

  • Summer: July 6 - October 11, 2026 (Early bird ends June 7)

    *Early bird saves $75 for Standard, $85 for Premium

  • Introductory knowledge in Biology is required. Pre-existing knowledge of comparative anatomy and physiology is preferred but not necessary.

    • Origin and Phylogenetics

    • Ecological and geographic distribution

    • Adaptations to powered flight

    • Nocturnality and echolocation

    • Time and energy budgets

    • Roosting ecology

    • Hibernation and migration

    • Reproductive physiology

    • Public health and epidemiology

    • Public relations and mythology

    • Capturing and marking bats

    • Physical survey techniques

      • Summer roost surveys

      • Hibernacula surveys

    • Echolocation and call structure

    • Acoustic survey techniques

      • Basic principles of sound

      • Inherent limitations of acoustics

    • Acoustic survey protocols

    • Conservation Topics 

      • SARS and bat virology

      • White-nose Syndrome

      • Renewable Energy

      • Urbanization

    • Conservation and management

      • Bat house management

      • Deforestation and fire management

      • Cave and mine management

      • Data management 

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COURSE OPTIONS & INFORMATION (Review chart above, then click below)

  • FORMAT:

    • 3 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

    • Get instructor support via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

    • After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

    CONTINUING EDUCATION:

    CERTIFICATIONS:

  • FORMAT:

    • 12 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

    • Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

    • After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

    CONTINUING EDUCATION:

    CERTIFICATIONS:

    ACADEMIC CREDIT:

 
TESTIMONIALS

Being early on in my career as a bat biologist, this course was exactly what I needed to help me get a solid foundation in bat ecology, conservation, and research while I was getting my feet underneath me. Even while having background knowledge in this topic, the course gave me a much more thorough understanding of the basic concepts that I came in with, and the supplementary resources made this even more comprehensive. Dr. Reynolds was incredibly responsive and flexible throughout the course, enabling me to work through the materials at a pace I could handle while working full time. The lectures were engaging and thoughtfully curated, as well as the reading materials. I'd happily recommend this course and Dr. Reynolds as a professor for anyone looking to improve their understanding of bat ecology, conservation, and research. 

Ashley Meyer

 

SCHOLARSHIPS

Full scholarships are available to participants from countries designated as “lower income” and “lower middle income” in the World Bank List of Economies. Please see our CWS World Scholars Program page for details.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations 30 days or more before the start date are not subject to cancellation fees. Cancellations <30 days before the start date are subject to a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds once the course begins.

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