SAN ANTONIO— In a private event, Bat Conservation International and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will offer exclusive media access to Bracken Cave’s 15 million resident bats.

This special, in-person event will focus on the important role bats and other wildlife play in our local ecosystem and the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act, a federal bill under consideration by Congress.

Home to the largest bat colony in the world, Bracken Cave Preserve is located less than 20 miles from downtown San Antonio. Experiencing the bats’ nightly flight into the skies in search of food has often been described by participants as jaw-dropping and inspirational.

Through this event, biologists aim to share their unique knowledge of wildlife, especially Mexican free-tailed bats, and discuss the importance of federal legislation like the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act.

If passed, the bill would benefit species of greatest conservation need, like Texas horned lizards, pronghorn, whooping cranes and bats. Recovering America’s Wildlife Act is advancing through Congress with bipartisan support — appropriating up to $50 million annually to Texas to restore habitat, protect wildlife and get more people into the outdoors.

Bracken Cave Media Event

Date: August 24

Time: 6 – 9 p.m. Bat emergences have occurred regularly during this time

Who:  Bat Conservation International and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

What: Media interviews and bat viewing

Where: 7515 Bracken Cave Road, San Antonio, Texas, 78266

Media can arrive to begin setting up at 6 p.m. Biologists will be available for interviews exclusively to media until 7:30 p.m. Once the bat emergence begins, no supplemental lighting will be allowed.  The emergence will also broadcast on social media.

If interested in attending this event, please RSVP by Aug. 22 to TPWD Public Information Officer Lerrin Johnson, 512-239-8735, lerrin.johnson@tpwd.texas.gov.