Bats

Hibernating bats used to fill the night skies of Nova Scotia, but in 2011 their populations dropped suddenly because of a new fungal disease, white-nose syndrome. Bats are crucial mammals in our native ecosystems and provide many services to our society. Each night they consume massive amounts of insects, pollinate flowers, and spread plant seeds. Since their decline, MTRI has been monitoring, researching and teaching Nova Scotians all about the wonders of bats. We also manage the Nova Scotia Bat Hotline and use this information to identify nesting colonies and work with the private landowners and partners to monitor these sites.

Species at Risk

The Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute is one of the foremost organizations specializing in Species at risk research. Working with any Species at risk requires obtaining a permit from the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR). Annually MTRI submits for permits from DNRR to work with these species. Additionally, all researchers and volunteers receive comprehensive training to ensure the safety and well-being of both the species and the individuals involved.