Bats of Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park - East

Colorado is home to 19 bat species, and eight are found in the vicinity of Rocky Mountain National Park. In this course, bat ecology expert Jeremy Siemers will introduce participants to the evolution, ecology, behavior, anatomy, threats, and population status of Colorado’s bats in an illustrated lecture, complete with video and acoustic materials. Participants will also learn about the various types of survey equipment used to monitor bat populations across Colorado. After dinner, our group will travel together to nearby foraging habitat to observe and listen to bat activity. While we will drive as close as possible to the field sites, participants should come prepared for short hikes.

Who: Participants ages 16 and up. This is a Level II course. Expect short-distance walks throughout the evening, primarily on level terrain.

When: Wednesday, July 24, 6:00pm to 10:00pm

Where: Fall River Visitor Center, 3450 Fall River Road, Estes Park, CO, and various sites in Rocky Mountain National Park.

What to bring:

• Note-taking materials,
• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes,
• Warm layers - temperatures will drop quickly after dark!
• A bag dinner, plus some extra snacks,
• Water,
• Rain gear, just in case. The best way to keep the rain away is to be prepared for wet weather!
• Any personal medications or supplies you might need,
• Optional: camera, binoculars.

About your instructor: Jeremy Siemers has worked with bats for over 20 years and is the Lead Zoologist for the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, a research program at Colorado State University. He has conducted surveys for and monitoring of bats throughout Colorado in habitats ranging from caves and mines to stock ponds and cattle troughs. He is also involved in the Colorado component of the North American Bat Monitoring Program, a continent-wide effort to monitor bats.

Conservancy members get 15% off individual registration when you use the discount code in your membership email! Limit 2 per membership.

Not a member of the Conservancy? Learn more and join here: Conservancy Membership

If you have questions about this course, please contact the Field Institute by email at education@RMConservancy.org or by phone at 970-586-3262.