The Largest Bat Colony In The World Is Right Here In Texas…And It’s Fascinating

Although the Congress Ave bats are more famous, they actually aren’t the largest colony in Texas. The much lesser-known Bracken Cave near San Antonio boasts the biggest bat colony in the entire world. Watching them envelop the sky in darkness on summer evenings is truly spectacular.

Bracken Cave is the summer home of over 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats, making it the largest bat colony in the world as well as one of the highest concentrations on earth of mammals in general.

The summertime emergence of these majestic creatures from the 100 foot wide half-moon opening at dusk is an absolutely unforgettable sight.

As you gaze into the sky and watch them take flight, the previously empty blue canvas will transform into a sea of blackness in a matter of seconds.

The cave is owned by Bat Conservation International, an organization with the sole mission to preserve the land in order for native plants and animals to thrive.

Although access to the cave itself is prohibited, nightly guided tours lead you directly to its mouth to watch the spectacular show unfold.

Have you ever been to Bracken Cave?

Here’s a video of the bats in action. Prepare to be amazed.

Katie Lawrence

Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing. Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.

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The Largest Bat Colony In The World Is Right Here In Texas…And It’s Fascinating

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