Annual Bat Day Event Set at Mammoth Cave National Park

Visitors watch as a bat biologist examines a bat captured in a mist net outside of the Historic Entrance to Mammoth Cave.

MAMMOTH CAVE, Ky. – The annual Bat Day event at Mammoth Cave National Park has been set for Saturday, August 30th. Bat researchers and biologists will discuss bat biology, monitoring techniques, and provide on-site demonstrations of how they capture, evaluate, and record a bat’s health. Events and activities start at 10 a.m. and last until 9 p.m. CDT.
 
“Bat Day promises a full day of exciting activities for all ages, highlighting the vital role bats play in our ecosystem,” said park Superintendent Barclay Trimble. “This unique event allows visitors to engage with bat experts and biologists, offering an incredible opportunity to learn about and appreciate these fascinating creatures.”
 
Activities begin at 10 a.m. and will feature a diverse range of topics centered around bat conservation and education including:

• Discussions about bat rehabilitation processes, including the threats bats face in nature and the initiatives of the National Park Service (NPS) in safeguarding bats and their habitats throughout the southeastern United States. 
• Collaborative research efforts aimed at understanding bat species and efforts to protect bat habitats across the United States, as well as the vital roles that zoos and aquariums play in conservation initiatives. 
• Junior Ranger activities for aspiring bat biologists which will simulate bat capture and data collection without using live bats. 
• Observation of live bat data collection and in the field health assessments conducted by trained bat researchers and biologists.

All Bat Day events are free and do not require reservations. Participants are advised to bring a small flashlight to illuminate the pathways to and from the Mammoth Cave Historic Entrance. Bat Day activities will be cancelled in the case of severe weather.
 
Bat Day is made possible by support from Friends of Mammoth Cave National Park who work in cooperation with the National Park Service to fund projects and programs that protect, preserve, and enhance the natural and cultural resources, and the visitor experience of Mammoth Cave National Park.