‘Biodiversity Live’ coming to a nature center near you

Cranbrook Institute of Science-based Organization for Bat Conservation conducting programs at several area nature centers in 2011 about strange life forms around the world.

November 13, 2010

Bloomfield Hills, Mich. — Wildlife comes in an endless array of shapes and sizes, and the Organization for Bat Conservation (OBC) is stepping beyond the bounds of bats alone to inform and entertain the public about nature’s wonders. With a grant from Critter Catchers, Inc, OBC will unveil the new “Biodiversity Live” program early next year.  There is an opportunity for programs at approximately a dozen nature centers or similar public events throughout southeastern Michigan.

“Biodiversity Live” is a multi-media presentation assisting participants in discovering unique wildlife sharing our world. Guests attending the sessions will learn about the interconnectedness of all life on Earth, and the part humans play in this delicate web. There will even be an opportunity for close encounters with these exceptional creatures outside their natural habitats.

“Programs like ‘Biodiversity Live’ are created with one purpose in mind. We want to present the mysteries of nature in a tangible way, and in easily accessible locations,” said Rob Mies, director, OBC. “With a grant from Critter Catchers, we’re amplifying the live animal experience by focusing attention on a few specific creatures and providing an in-depth learning experience. It’s ideal for families, school groups and clubs.”

These sessions are made possible for the third consecutive year through philanthropic contributions from Critter Catchers, Inc., a wildlife control firm based in northeastern Oakland County.  Critter Catchers is a long-time supporter of the OBC and its educational bat programs. In 2010 alone, the small business sponsored over a dozen separate public events, with total contributions reaching $4,500.

“Nature centers are struggling to survive in this tough economy – and they are such a precious resource for children to learn about wildlife and science at an early age.” said Dave Kugler, President, Critter Catchers, Inc. “There was good attendance at the live bat programs in 2010, and I am hoping for even greater turnout in 2011 with the ‘Biodiversity Live’ program.  The program will help bring attention to human/wildlife interactions, as well as, the stunning diversity of wildlife.” 

For more information about ‘Biodiversity Live’ and other OBC events, contact director Rob Mies at (248) 645-3239.

About The Organization for Bat Conservation: The Organization for Bat Conservation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of bats and their habit through educational programs and collaborative conservation efforts. The Organization has the largest grass-roots bat conservation educational project in the United States. Each year, over 250,000 people attend a live bat program or visit the Bat Zone at Cranbrook Institute of Science. 

About Critter Catchers, Inc.: Founded in 2005, the Ortonville, Mich.-based Critter Catchers, Inc. was formed by David Kugler, an Oakland University graduate holding a Bachelors of Science in Biology, and a Masters Degree in Environmental Engineering from Wayne State University. Critter Catchers provides wildlife control services in SE Michigan and specializes in humane bat removal and other attic pests. Visit the Website at www.crittercatchersinc.com or call: (248) 432-2712.