On a bat safari in the municipality of West Maas en Waal
In collaboration with the municipality of West Maas en Waal, IVN Nature Education organizes a series of bat safaris. During these free walks, residents go out with a bat expert in their own environment.

This summer, IVN Nature Education, in collaboration with the municipality of West Maas en Waal, is organizing a series of special evening excursions: the bat safaris. During these free walks, residents will go out with a bat expert in their own environment. With the help of a special bat detector, participants can even hear the bats hunting and communicating.
Closer than you think
Bats often live closer than you think: under eaves, in trees, or in old cavity walls. Yet many people know very little about these mysterious nocturnal animals. “During the safaris, we show how bats live, where they sleep, and what they eat,” says Joep Smits of IVN Nature Education. “We also provide practical tips on how you can help bats, for example with nesting boxes or a bat-friendly garden.”
Endangered animals
Bats are legally protected animals and play an important role in nature. Among other things, they help control insects. The municipality of West Maas en Waal considers it important to make residents aware of these special animals and their habitat. Therefore, the municipality organizes free excursions for its residents.
Dates and registration
The bat safaris take place in various villages from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Saturday, August 30, in Appeltern
- Friday, September 12, in Wamel
- Saturday, September 13, in Alphen
- Friday, September 19, in Boven-Leeuwen
Registration is required.
This series of bat safaris is a collaboration between IVN Maas en Waal, IVN Gelderland, the municipality of West Maas en Waal, and the province of Gelderland.