Volume 17, Issue 3, Fall 1999

Member Alert: BATS Movie is a True Horror

Recycling the same old formula of movies such as Jaws and Anaconda, Hollywood is once again playing upon people’s fear of mysterious animals with the release of Bats, a scary feature that opens in U.S. theaters October 22. The movie depicts a small Texas town terrorized by genetically altered, demon-like bats: essentially, a 1999 version of Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds.

BCI has made multiple requests to the movie producers and distributors for a public service announcement to accompany the film, but such attempts have failed. Although some positive information has been included, the overall impression will be that bats are dangerous. We appreciate our members’ concern and remind you that there are many ways you can help.

- Write a letter to your local newspaper to correct myths about bats associated with the movie.

-Volunteer to give bat programs to local schools and community groups to explain the roles of bats in nature.

-Hand out BCI "Bat Fact" cards with Halloween candy. (In the U.S. and Canada, call the BCI catalog order line at 1-800-538-BATS.)

All articles in this issue:

• On the Cover

• Young Ambatsadors of BCI

• Former Home of More Than a Million Endangered Indiana Bats Protected

• The Tale of a Giant Sponge, A Hot Chili Pepper, and a Bat

• Where the Bats Are - Part II: Other Animals' Shelters

• 2000 Field Study Workshops

• Invitation to BCI's Legacy Circle

• Member Alert: BATS Movie is a True Horror

• Look for "Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats" at these locations:

• "Highlights" Report Moved

• Founder's Circle Trip to Botswana and Zambia

• Join us in the Wilds of Venzuela