Illinois is home to thirteen species of bats. They are all small, winged mammals, most weighing less than one ounce. These little nocturnal creatures play a crucial ecosystem role by controlling insect populations, including agricultural pests and disease vectors like mosquitoes. All Illinois bat species are insectivores, consuming thousands of insects nightly, which reduces the need for pesticides.
Learn about the bats of Illinois and Lake County, including steps you can take to provide habitat for bats in your backyard or neighborhood. Understand threats to bats and simple ways you can help to protect your local bat populations.
About Our Speaker
Dr. Joy O’Keefe is an Associate Professor and Wildlife Extension Specialist in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. She was formerly an Associate Professor at Indiana State University and Director of the Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and Conservation.