Twilight Bat Chat: A Family Event

Join us for a family friendly bat roost event on Saturday and learn about new urban biodiversity research!

Note: This event is meant for families and oriented towards children ineligible to attend Bat Roost counts. Due to limited capacity, we would like to prioritize this event for groups with children. We ask that groups without children consider the Bats & Brews events coming up (multiple dates), with registration through Friends of LA River, @folarorg! We also host annual Bat Roost counts in June and August (ages 14+), save the date information is posted @natureinla around May.

Learn how community scientists help bat researchers understand urban bat populations, locations, how they react to human disturbances like noise and light pollution, and prepare conservationists to respond to the spreading threat of white nose syndrome in case it reaches Southern California.

See how community scientists do field research, count bats as they depart from urban bat roosts under freeway bridges and along the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers.

What happens at a Bat Roost Count? Find out here.

Know Before You Go

Directions and Details: You will receive an email from us with where to park and meet.

Age Limit: There is no age limit, but please see site information

What to Bring: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes you don't mind getting wet, layers, insect repellent, a flashlight or headlamp, water and snacks.

Site Information:

• Most sites have bike/paved paths on the sides
• There may be brief descents and ascents of potentially steep channelized river infrastructure.
• May require walking up to 0.5-1 mile to the roost from parking location.
• May require walking down/up slopes with smooth or rocky surfaces
• There may be water in the river at the time of the count, your shoes may get wet.
• Although we try to choose a site with less houseless presence, roosts are located in public infrastructure and we may be required to briefly and respectfully interact with houseless individuals who live nearby.

Accessibility

The Community Science Office at NHMLAC knows that everyone belongs in science and nature. We commit to doing everything we can to make community science a welcoming space for all.

• If you require Spanish interpretation, please confirm that on your RSVP.
• You are welcome to bring your own chair or request one during signup.
• If you have any other accessibility requirements, please email mordenana@nhm.org no later than 5 days before the event. We will do our best to make you and your family's participation a fun adventure!

Banner + Sticker Illustration by Sofie Shen