Arizona is home to 28 species of bats, many of which live and forage right in our own backyards. Bats are the only true flying mammals and are primary predators of insect pests helping to control insect-spread human diseases. Although bats play critical roles in our ecosystem, they are declining rapidly worldwide.

Join us for a bat netting event with the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Prescott National Forest to meet these misunderstood creatures in person! This is a rare opportunity to see these mysterious and fascinating animals up close and learn about their essential roles in the ecosystems in which they live.

As participants set up camp, researchers and volunteers will set up large, inconspicuous nets above the creek to capture bats traveling down the riparian corridor. Bats use these stream passages to drink and feed on insects in the early evening. While we wait for bats to arrive, the Arizona Game and Fish Wildlife Viewing Team will give a presentation on bat biology and ecology. Biologists will then retrieve the bats from the nets and bring them back to record data. Attendees will have an up-close viewing and photograph opportunity before the bats are released. Along the way, we will learn about the species captured and the scientific process of collecting data.

The following day, we invite guests to find our other winged friends—birds! A naturalist will lead a morning birding session along Walnut Creek's riparian habitat.

A portion of the registration fee will fund the AZGFD wildlife viewing enhancements and opportunities statewide.