When 20 million bats come swirling out of Bracken Cave on summer evenings, they create one of the most awesome sights in nature. Bat Conservation International members will be able to witness this unforgettable emergence at this summer's Members-Only Nights at the Central Texas cave.
The world's largest bat colony gathers at the cave each summer to give birth and rear its young. And each night, the Mexican free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) spread across thousands of square miles, flying over towns and farmland and consuming more than 200 tons of night-flying insects.
BCI, through the generosity of its members and partners, purchased Bracken Cave in 1991 to ensure this critical bat habitat is protected. The organization's goal is to create a world-class educational and research center that will allow the public to visit without harm to the bats or their environment. Until that dream becomes reality, however, visitation to the San Antonio-area cave must be strictly limited, primarily to BCI members on special nights.
The 2004 member nights are scheduled for Saturday evenings on June 26, July 10 and July 24, August 7, August 21, August 28 and September 4 and 11. Registration begins May 3, and reservations cannot be accepted before that date.
Simply send BCI your name and member number, address, phone number, email address, the number of people attending, and your first and second choice for dates. Email that information to bracken@batcon.org; fax it to (512) 327-9724, Attention Members Night Coordinator; or call BCI at (512) 327-9721 during business hours (7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday) and ask for the coordinator.
Space is limited to a total of 50 people each night, so please make your reservations as soon after May 3 as possible. We'll send you confirmation of the date of your visit, along with a map and additional information.
These tours are a special privilege for members and their immediate families only. Please be considerate of others and restrict your group size to approximately four people per family. No pets are allowed.
If you are not a BCI member, join now. You'll not only get to see this remarkable
natural wonder, but your support will help protect it.
