NEC Drop-in: Beneficial Bats

August’s theme, Pollinators of Cylburn, explores the diverse wildlife that help flowering plants grow and reproduce. From butterflies and bees to hummingbirds and bats, pollinators can be found throughout Cylburn Arboretum visiting flowers in search of nectar and pollen. Each Saturday highlights a different pollinator through hands-on activities and simple make-and-take crafts. All ages are welcome. No fee or registration required (supplies limited). Drop-in anytime between 11am to 12pm. August 1: Peculiar Pollinators When it comes to pollinators, bees, butterflies and hummingbirds are often what we think of. Drop by the Nature Education Center to learn how beetles, wasps, flies and even ants are important pollinators! August 8: Busy Bees Bees come in all colors, shapes and sizes from the large carpenter bees to tiny sweat bees. Over 430 species of bees can be found in Maryland! Drop by the Nature Education Center to discover some of the species you may find here at Cylburn Arboretum. August 15: Helpful Hummingbirds The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the only breeding hummingbird species found in the northeast region of North America. Drop by the Nature Education Center to identify the flowers that attract these hummingbirds before they start their fall migration to Central America. August 22: Lovely Lepidoptera Butterflies and moths are insects that scientists call Lepidoptera, meaning, “scale winged”. Drop by the Nature Education Center to learn about the differences between butterflies and moths as well as the different senses they rely on to help them find food. August 29: Beneficial Bats Some bats help pollinate flowers and spread seeds while searching for nectar and fruit at night. Drop by the Nature Education Center to learn about the bat species in Maryland and how they help the environment. (Image: Eastern red bat by Dr. J. Scott Altenbach)