Date: May 14, 2024

Time: 2:00 p.m.

Location: Polk County Public Libraries, Saluda Branch

Speaker: Mark Ray, NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) Engagement Program Specialist

Join us to learn about the only flying mammal, bats!  Mark will discuss some of the bat species found in western North Carolina, where they live, and why they are beneficial to have around.  He will also share the most recent research on White Nose Syndrome and the NCWRC’s bat conservation efforts.

Mark has been an advocate outdoorsman his entire life, being a native of the NC Appalachian Mountains. His desire to extend his outdoors love and knowledge led him to employment with the NCWRC as an Enforcement Officer in March of 2007. He has worked from Manteo to Murphy with NCWRC Agency and has developed an even greater love for this state and its wildlife resources. He currently lives in Macon County with his wife/best friend.  As of September 2016, he has worked as an educator, coordinator, and program developer with the NCWRC education division. It is Mark’s goal to continue providing quality programs for all of the great constituents throughout this state.

The Saluda Library Speaker Series programs are made possible thanks to our partnership with the Polk County Public Libraries Systems.

Contact Pam Torlina, [email protected], with questions or for more information.