Birdwatching is cool and all, but have you ever heard of bat watching? The world’s largest bat colony is in Texas at Bracken Bat Cave near San Antonio. During the summer months, you’ll be able to see the Mexican free-tailed bats firsthand. To learn all about what makes the world’s largest bat colony in Texas such a neat thing to see, take a look below.

On the northern outskirts of San Antonio lies Bracken Cave, which, at first glance, doesn't look like anything too out of the ordinary.
USFWS/Ann Froschauer (Flickr)
Those familiar with the area, however, know that the world's largest bat colony makes its summer home in the depths of this rocky outcropping.
Mating season, which runs from March to October, attracts more than 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats to the area each year.
USFWS/Ann Froschauer (Flickr)
Temperatures get up to about 104 degrees in the cave, so it serves as a perfect incubator.
Like clockwork, the bats emerge from the cave at dusk on summer nights in search of food.
USFWS/Ann Froschauer (Flickr)
The sound of millions of wings flapping in unison fills the air as the creatures blanket the skies looking for bugs to eat. Collectively, the bats chow down on about 140 tons of flying beetles, winged ants, and moths every single night.

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If you want to see the spectacle firsthand, Bat Conservation International holds "Member Nights" in the summer.
USFWS/Ann Froschauer (Flickr)
Joining is easy!
The sheer number of bats makes it hard to discern where the swarm ends and the sky begins.
USFWS/Ann Froschauer (Flickr)
Although your eyes may deceive you at times, the noise is unmistakable. It's akin to steady rainfall, and the colony is also visible on weather radars.
Animal enthusiasts of all ages are sure to have a blast learning all about these unique creatures.
USFWS/Ann Froschauer (Flickr)
If you're lucky, a staff member might even let you get up close and personal with one of the bats.
The schedule for Member Nights typically comes out in early spring on the Bat Conservation International website.
USFWS/Ann Froschauer (Flickr)
We'll be waiting with bated breath!

Visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife and Bat Conservation International websites to learn more.

Have you ever attended a Member Night at Bracken Bat Cave? If so, please share your experience with us in the comments below. Also, be sure to check out our previous article for more caves in Texas whose rock walls harbor fascinating secrets.

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world's largest bat colony is in texas

Jennifer Young | February 04, 2022

Where in Texas will you find the world's largest bat colony?

Bracken Bat Cave, which is located right outside of San Antonio, Texas is where you'll find one of the world's largest colony of bats. Approximately 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats make the cave their home during the summer months. The emergence of bats from Bracken Bat Cave each summer is one of the most unique things to see in Texas. (The address for this attraction isL 26101 FM3009, San Antonio, TX, 78266)

What is the biggest natural underground cave system in Texas?

Natural Bridge Caverns, which is located right outside of San Antonio, is one of Texas' must-see natural wonders. It's also the biggest natural underground cave system in the Lone Star State. This gigantic cave, which is made from limestone, is believed to be 1-1.5 million years old. It was first discovered by four college students in 1960 and currently has one of the world's largest calcite crystal formation collections. There are several beautiful places to visit and plenty of unique things to see in Texas, and Natural Bridge Caverns is one of them. It's also the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. (You'll find it at 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX, 78266)

What is one of the wackiest roadside attractions in Texas?

There are several weird places in Texas just waiting to be discovered. One of these is the Cathedral of Junk. The Cathedral of Junk is a collection of junk in the backyard of a man's home in Austin. This three-story monument consists of everything from fences and wheels, to poles and neon signs. You'll also notice several creepy doll heads and inspirational quote signs while viewing the monument. It might have "Junk" in its name, but it truly is a piece of art. The Cathedral of Junk can be visited by appointment only. Don't stop by without calling first. (Visit this attraction at 4422 Lareina Drive, Austin, TX, 78745.

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Featured Addresses
Bracken Cave Preserve (Bat Conservation International Inc), 7515 Bracken Cave Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, USA