Bats: Guardians of the Night

In the quiet of the night, as the world settles into slumber, a remarkable creature takes flight. Bats, often misunderstood and shrouded in mystery, are among the most fascinating and ecologically important mammals on our planet. This evening, we invite you to embark on an enlightening journey into the hidden world of bats, where you will discover their incredible diversity, their vital roles in ecosystems, and the unique adaptations that have allowed them to thrive for millions of years.

Bats have long been the subject of myths and legends, often portrayed as sinister creatures of the night. But what is the truth behind these tales?

Masters of the Night Sky: Bats are the only mammals capable of sustained flight, and they have perfected this ability in ways that leave scientists in awe.

Guardians of Ecosystems: Despite their small size, bats have an outsized impact on the ecosystems they inhabit.

Bats in Peril: Unfortunately, bats face numerous threats, many of which are human-induced. Habitat destruction, climate change, and disease, such as the devastating White-nose Syndrome, are pushing some bat species to the brink of extinction.

Fascinating Bat Behavior: Bats exhibit a wide range of behaviors that are as intriguing as they are diverse.

Live Bat Viewing Experience: Following the lecture, attendees will have the rare opportunity to witness bats in action. As dusk falls, we will gather on the 3rd floor terrace overlooking the Coachella Valley. Using bat detectors that convert ultrasonic echolocation calls into audible sounds, you will hear the bats as they hunt for insects, navigate their surroundings, and communicate with one another.

Our guides will provide expert commentary as we observe these nocturnal acrobats in their element. You’ll learn to identify different bat species by their calls and behaviors, gaining a deeper appreciation for their unique adaptations. This immersive experience will allow you to connect with these mysterious creatures in a way few people ever do.

Bats are not just creatures of the night; they are guardians of our ecosystems, essential to the health of our environment. By understanding and protecting bats, we safeguard the delicate balance of nature that supports all life on Earth. This event aims to inspire a greater appreciation for bats and a commitment to their conservation.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of discovery, as we celebrate the wonder of bats and their vital role in the natural world.

Note: Click on text that is bold and highlighted in blue for links to important useful information.

This is a free program.

• Parking: Parking is free for Coachella Valley and High Desert residents with I.D. Otherwise, $15 per vehicle.
• Program presenter: Dani Ortiz works for the Bureau of Land Management and is the Monument Manager for the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument (Monument). She started her federal career in 2008 as a student employee working at the Monument and has held a variety of positions ranging from Visitor Service Information Assistant, Natural Resource Specialist, Restoration Ecologist, and Wildlife Biologist. Dani grew up in the Coachella Valley and has always had a passion for wildlife, especially bats.
• Event Date and Time: Sunday, September 8, 6:30 pm. ( see on purchasing Tram tickets and arriving on time) Remember, receive a 20% discount on Tram tickets.
• Meet at: The first floor Santa Rosa Theater, next to the Visitor Center. We advise arriving at the tram station by 6 pm.
• Optional: Consider dining at the Peaks Restaurant for truly fine cuisine over looking the Coachella Valley. If so, call now for a reservation leaving enough time for the Bat Program at 6:30 pm. It's a busy last night before the annual one month maintenance closure for the tram. For reservation call 760-325-4537 or
• Dress: Consider a warm jacket for the outdoor portion. Evening temperature may be around 50 degrees.

Host or Publisher Mt. San Jacinto Natural History Association