Citizen Science Microbat Introduction and Monitoring

Join us for an evening of citizen science as we explore the fascinating world of Australia's microbats in Westgate Park, beside the Birrarung and its freshwater lakes.

Microbats are small, nocturnal flying mammals that play a vital role in controlling insects and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Using echolocation to navigate and hunt, they depend on healthy habitats, freshwater and conservation efforts to thrive in both urban and natural environments.

During this guided walk, you'll help monitor 30 microbat nest boxes installed as part of an ongoing citizen science program. As the sun sets, we'll use specialised echo meters to detect flying microbats and identify different species by interpreting the unique spectrograms created by their echolocation calls.

Along the way, you're also likely to spot local wildlife, including possums, waterbirds and fairy wrens and, if you're lucky, an owl or even a rakali (Australian water rat).

Meeting point: 4.00 pm at the BBQ area near the Todd Road entrance.

Please wear warm clothing, sturdy footwear and mosquito repellent. This is an outdoor event and will proceed in suitable weather conditions, except during heavy rain, as Microbats and insects cannot fly in rain.  

This event is being generously hosted by Westgate Biodiversity, Bili Landcare & Nursery.

• Most Riverfest events are free, and many have limited places with long waitlists. Please only book if you're confident you can attend, so others don't miss out. Bookings are limited to 2 tickets for smaller events and 4 tickets for larger events.
  

• Can't make it? Please cancel your ticket by opening your Humanitix confirmation email and selecting 'Manage Order'. Your place will then be released to someone on the waitlist. If you need assistance, contact us by email: riverfest@yarrariver.org.au
  

• Events will proceed unless severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances require a change. If this happens, registered participants will be notified by email.

The terrain is mostly flat with some hills and uneven ground - easy walking

We welcome people of all abilities. If you have any accessibility requirements or need assistance to participate, please contact us before the event so we can discuss how we can support your attendance.

Celebrate the Yarra, Birrarung at one of 70+ events hosted over three weeks from 27 September to 18 October. Whether you enjoy riverside walks, cleanups, creative workshops, wildlife spotting or paddling adventures, there's something for everyone at Riverfest. Riverfest is presented by Yarra Riverkeeper Association with thanks to our partners Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo collaboration and Water4Good. Check out the full Riverfest program here.

Yarra Riverkeeper Association acknowledges that the lands and waterways of the Yarra, Birrarung catchment, are the unceded territories of the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung and Bunurong Boonwurrung peoples. We pay respect to Traditional Owners, who have, and continue, to care for Country. We acknowledge that the river now called Yarra has always been known as the Birrarung by its custodians.