Facts About Bats Unveiled at Ballard Park

NEWPORT, RI — The world has more than 1,000 species of bats, according to Meaghan Hebert, with the Ballard Park home school class. And only three of them actually suck blood.

All the facts about bats are on the agenda Oct. 26 when Ballard Park holds its next home school lesson.

The class, Bats of Ballard, delves into fun facts about the flying mammals and their importance in the world.

"Bats may be a popular symbol for Halloween, but they also play a crucial role in the environment," she said.

The class, for ages 7 through 12, meets at 1 p.m. at the Hazard Road entrance and runs to 2:30 p.m.

Fee is $5 per child. E-mail education@ballardpark.org or call (401) 619.3377 to register.

Rain date: October 31.

Courtesy Photo by Kate Dutton