Bats and Nighthawks at the Phoenix bat Cave

About this event

You asked, and we are providing. Our first trip to the Phoenix Bat Cave. Celebrate our summer breeding Mexican Free-tailed bats with a trip to see them making their nightly exit from the cave to hunt for insects. The bat cave is a meternal colony of bats, who leave their young inside the cave while they forage before returning to feed their babies. The flood control tunnel where the bats roost is an example one example of conservation happening in spite of development, and an inspiration to keep looking for conservation opportunities. Along with the bats, crepuscular birds like our summer migrant lesser Nighthawks make use of the habitat, as they hunt for insects around sunset. The canal is host to Mallards, along with the occasional neotropic Cormorant, and we'll be sure to keep our eyes and ears open for the dusk chorus or birds affirming their territories. Optional stop for snacks and discussion at OHSO Brewery and Distillery after we get our fill of bats, or it's too dark to watch them anymore. Bring: water, optics, a sense of wonder, comfortable shoes, desired mobility aids Difficulty 1.5/4 unpaved trail, some uneven areas Accessibility: No seating, no restrooms Leader: Robert Carter

More things to do in Phoenix, AZ